The Defence Headquarters has confirmed the death of retired Major General Rabe Abubakar in captivity following his abduction by terrorists, describing the loss as a painful blow to the Armed Forces and the nation.
The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has confirmed the death of retired Major General Rabe Abubakar, who died while in captivity after being abducted by terrorists.
The announcement was made on Saturday, June 13, 2026, by the Director of Defence Information, Major General Samaila Uba, who expressed the Armed Forces of Nigeria’s deep sorrow over the tragic development.
According to Uba, military authorities deliberately refrained from making public comments about the retired officer’s abduction in order not to compromise ongoing rescue operations being conducted by the armed forces and other security agencies.
He disclosed that all available operational resources were deployed in efforts to secure Abubakar’s safe release before news of his death emerged.
“The Defence Headquarters regrets to announce the passing of retired Major General Rabe Abubakar, who tragically lost his life in captivity following his abduction,” Uba stated.
The military spokesman extended condolences to the late officer’s family, friends, former colleagues, and Nigerians, describing the incident as a painful loss to the nation.
Abubakar was widely respected within military circles for his distinguished career and service to Nigeria in several strategic positions.
According to the DHQ, the late officer served as spokesman for various military formations before rising to become Director of Defence Information, a role in which he played a key part in communicating military operations and national security developments.
The military noted that Abubakar also made significant contributions to counter-insurgency campaigns, personnel development, and broader national security initiatives throughout his career.
Uba described him as a committed and professional officer whose dedication to duty and national unity remained exemplary.
“The deceased served as spokesman for various military formations and later as Director of Defence Information, where he played a significant role in projecting the activities and operations of the military,” he said.
The DHQ stated that the incident has further strengthened the resolve of the armed forces to intensify operations against terrorists, bandits, kidnappers, and other criminal groups threatening Nigeria’s security.
According to the military, ongoing operations across the country have already been reinforced in response to rising incidents of abduction and violent attacks, including the case involving the retired general.
The Defence Headquarters reaffirmed its commitment to dismantling terrorist networks, restoring peace across affected communities, and ensuring that perpetrators of violent crimes are brought to justice.
“The military remains committed to defending Nigeria’s sovereignty, protecting citizens, and ensuring that those responsible for acts of terrorism are brought to justice,” Uba said.
He assured Nigerians that the Armed Forces would continue sustained operations against criminal elements and would not relent until lasting peace and security are restored across the country.
The death of Abubakar marks the loss of a senior military figure whose career spanned several decades of service and whose contributions to national security left a lasting impact on the Armed Forces of Nigeria.
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