Why we kept quiet – DHQ confirms abducted General’s death

The Defence Headquarters has explained why it kept quiet over the abduction of retired Maj. Gen. Rabe Abubakar, a former Director of Defence Information, who died in bandits’ captivity.

DHQ said it deliberately avoided public comments on the incident so as not to jeopardise ongoing rescue efforts by the Armed Forces and other security agencies.

The explanation was contained in a statement issued on Saturday by the Director of Defence Information, Brig. Gen. Samaila Uba, while confirming the death of the retired senior officer.

Abubakar and his wife were abducted in May while travelling through Katsina State.

The Katsina State Government had earlier confirmed that the retired general died in captivity from complications arising from diabetes and hypertension.

On June 6, a video surfaced online showing Abubakar and his wife appealing to the Katsina State Government to secure their release.

In the video, the abductors demanded the release of detained bandits and livestock as condition for freeing the couple.

Reacting to his death, DHQ said every available operational resource was deployed in efforts to secure Abubakar’s safe release before the tragic outcome.

“The DHQ regrets to announce the passing of retired Maj. Gen. Rabe Abubakar, who tragically lost his life in captivity following his abduction,” the statement said.

“We extend our heartfelt condolences to the family of the late senior officer, his associates and Nigerians at large over the painful loss.”

Uba said the Armed Forces of Nigeria received the news with deep sorrow.

He described Abubakar as a distinguished officer who served the country with honour and professionalism in several strategic appointments.

According to him, the late general served as spokesman for various military formations before becoming Director of Defence Information.

He said Abubakar played a significant role in projecting the activities and operations of the military.

Uba added that the deceased also contributed to counter-insurgency operations, the professional development of military personnel and other national security initiatives.

“His commitment to duty and the unity of Nigeria remains a shining example for all personnel of the Armed Forces of Nigeria,” he said.

DHQ said the incident had further strengthened the resolve of the military to intensify operations against terrorists, bandits and other criminal elements threatening national security.

Uba said ongoing operations across the country had been reinforced in response to the rising cases of abductions and violent attacks, including the incident involving the late retired general.

“The DHQ reiterates its determination to dismantle terrorist networks and restore lasting peace and security across the country,” he said.

“The military remains committed to defending Nigeria’s sovereignty, protecting citizens and ensuring that those responsible for acts of terrorism are brought to justice.

“We assure Nigerians that the Armed Forces will not relent until peace and security are restored and those responsible for terrorist activities across the nation are held to account.”