The family of late retired Major General Rabe Abubakar has called on the Katsina State Government to explain how his body was recovered from bandits while his wife, Amina Abubakar, remains in captivity.
Speaking during an interview with DW Hausa, the deceased officer’s son, Ishaka Rabe Abubakar, dismissed reports suggesting that his mother had regained freedom, insisting that she is still being held by the abductors.
The retired general and his wife were kidnapped on May 30 while travelling along the Marabar Musawa–Kafinsoli Road in Katsina State. Armed bandits reportedly attacked their vehicle near Zakin Baure village in Matazu Local Government Area, injuring their driver during the incident.
Ishaka said the family has no information about how his father’s remains were retrieved and urged those seeking answers to direct their questions to the state government.
According to him, many people became curious after the family announced funeral arrangements for the late military officer. He noted that even family members do not know the circumstances surrounding the recovery of the corpse.
Reflecting on his father’s death, Ishaka described him as a humble, peaceful, and religious man who maintained cordial relationships with people throughout his lifetime. He expressed confidence that his father would be rewarded for his good deeds.
He also challenged reports that linked the retired general’s death to diabetes, saying the family believes a snakebite may have played a role due to visible marks reportedly found on his leg. However, he acknowledged that only God knows exactly what happened.
The deceased’s son further reiterated that his mother remains in captivity, warning against the spread of false information about her release.
Addressing the Katsina State Government, Ishaka said the family does not accuse Governor Dikko Radda of direct involvement in the tragedy but stressed that leadership comes with responsibility for the safety and welfare of citizens. He added that the family’s main concern now is the safe return of his mother.
Earlier, the Katsina State Government confirmed the death of the retired military officer, stating that he died while in captivity due to complications related to diabetes and hypertension. The government described his passing as a significant loss and pledged to intensify efforts against banditry while seeking justice for those responsible for the abduction.
