Katsina residents react to ex-Army spokesperson Rabe’s death, demand wife’s release

Residents of Katsina State have expressed grief and concern following the death of retired Major-General Rabe Abubakar, the former Army Spokesman, describing the tragedy as a painful reminder that insecurity continues to threaten lives irrespective of social status or background.

Among those who reacted to the development in an interview with the BusinessDay on Saturday in Katsina was Jamilu Charanchi, Jamilu Aliyu Charanchi, the National Coordinator of the Coalition of Northern Groups (CNG) said the deceased died because the state failed in its most sacred responsibility of protecting lives and property of its citizens.

He said, “There is nothing “natural” about dying in the hands of bandits. A man abducted from his home, mosque, church, farmland or along the road and held captive by criminals did not die a natural death, he died because the state failed in its most sacred responsibility: protecting the lives and property of its citizens.

“When even a retired Major General can be kidnapped and perish in captivity, what hope remains for ordinary Nigerians? This tragedy is a damning indictment of the worsening insecurity ravaging our nation. No amount of official wording can whitewash this painful reality.

“The real cause of death is the collapse of security and the failure of the government to guarantee the safety of its people.

Hajiya Hannatu Mohammed Umar, former Chairperson of the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists, (NAWOJ), Katsina State Chapter, on her part, said the death of the retired military officer had left many women in the state devastated.

Read also: Katsina confirms retired Major General Rabe died in bandits’ captivity despite rescue efforts

According to her, the circumstances surrounding the tragedy have heightened fears among residents and raised concerns about the security situation in the country.

“The death of rtd Major General Rabe is deeply painful and alarming. My heart goes out to his family, especially as reports indicate that his wife is still in captivity.

“This tragedy reminds us that insecurity affects everyone, regardless of status or background. It raises important questions about the safety of ordinary citizens and highlights the urgent need for stronger security measures”, she said.

The former NAWOJ chairperson also called for the immediate and unconditional release of the woman, stressing that the family had already suffered enough.

“She has already endured the trauma of losing her husband under such tragic circumstances and should not be subjected to further suffering.

“My thoughts and prayers are with her family during this difficult time, and I urge all relevant authorities to intensify efforts to secure her safe return. No family should have to endure such pain and uncertainty”, Mohammad added.

Also speaking, NAWOJ chairperson Katsina State chapter, Fatima Sanda Kaita said the reported death of General Rabe is deeply heartbreaking. “My thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends, and all those affected by this tragic loss. His abduction highlights the persistent security challenges facing our communities.

” This unfortunate incident is a painful reminder that insecurity continues to affect people from all walks of life, regardless of status or background. When prominent individuals are not spared, it underscores the vulnerability of ordinary citizens who face these threats daily across many parts of Katsina State and the wider North-West.

” I believe this moment calls for renewed commitment from all stakeholders government, security agencies, community leaders, and citizens to strengthen efforts aimed at protecting lives and restoring public confidence. Beyond security operations, there is a need to address the underlying factors that fuel violence and criminality in our communities.

” We must also remember the families left behind by victims of insecurity. The emotional, social, and economic consequences are often profound and long-lasting. Our collective responsibility is to work towards a society where every citizen can live, travel, and pursue their daily activities without fear.

The reactions captured the mood of many Katsina citizens on Saturday, reflecting growing concerns over insecurity and renewed calls for stronger measures to protect lives and ensure the safe return of victims in captivity.

On Saturday morning, May 30, 2026, armed bandits intercepted Major General Rabe Abubakar (rtd) and his wife, Hajiya Amina Abubakar along the Marabar Musawa–Kafinsoli road, Matazu Local Government Area of Katsina State.

The former Director of Defence Information and his wife were driving from Kaduna to Katsina in a red Peugeot saloon car to attend a wedding as the bandits opened fire on the vehicle. Their driver, Abdullahi Sa’idu, sustained gunshot wounds but managed to escape and receive medical treatment.

Available reports linked the group to a notorious bandit leader, Kachalla Muhammadu, operating around the Matazu axis. On June 6, 2026, the abductors released a proof-of-life video. The couple was filmed standing in a forest clearing begging the government for intervention as the bandits demanded the immediate release of three of their detained members (Sani, Aminu, and Nasiru) alongside the return of seized livestock.

Late ex-Army spokesperson was last seen in a one minute video released by the bandits widely circulated on Whatsapp as well as other social media in the wake of Friday, June 12, 2026 with a swollen leg perhaps bitten by a snake or the onset of Deep Vein Thrombosis alongside his wife and some of the suspected victims.

On June 13, 2026, the Katsina State Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Dr. Nasiru Mu’azu, announced that the General died from complications of diabetes and hypertension as intensive search-and-rescue efforts by joint security forces had failed to extract him in time.