Retired military officers and associates of the late Major General Rabe Abubakar (rtd) have called for urgent and comprehensive reforms to Nigeria’s security architecture following the retired general’s death after he was abducted by bandits in Katsina State. The demand was made during a press conference held in Kaduna on Thursday, where senior retired military personnel and diplomats gathered to mourn the late officer and discuss the worsening security situation across the country.
Speaking on behalf of colleagues, friends, and associates of the deceased, Brigadier General Isma’ila Abdullahi (rtd) described General Abubakar’s death as a painful reminder of the growing insecurity confronting Nigerians. Among those present at the briefing were Brigadier General Abubakar Abdulqadir (rtd), Brigadier General M.I. Tsiga (rtd), Air Commodore Yusuf Anas (rtd), Ambassador Ibrahim Usman Gafai, and Ambassador Ahmed Muhammad Musawa.
According to Abdullahi, General Abubakar died after being kidnapped by bandits operating in the Matazu area of Katsina State, an incident that has shocked members of the retired military community.
“Our colleague, friend, and brother, Major General Rabe Abubakar (rtd), died following his abduction by cruel bandits. His sudden death has left us shocked and deeply saddened,” Abdullahi said.
While acknowledging the efforts of the Federal Government and the Katsina State Government, which led to the rescue of the late general’s wife, Hajiya Amina Rabe Abubakar, the retired officers stressed that the tragedy underscores the urgent need for stronger and more effective security measures. They noted that kidnapping, banditry, and terrorism continue to threaten lives and livelihoods across several parts of the country, despite ongoing security operations.