Breaking: Former Defence spokesman Rabe Abubakar, wife abducted in Katsina
Former Director of Defence Information, Major General Rabe Abubakar (retd.), and his wife have reportedly been abducted by gunmen in Katsina State.
Major General Rabe Abubakar, who served as Director of Defence Information, was one of the military’s most prominent spokespersons and played a key role in communicating the Armed Forces’ counterinsurgency and national security operations during his years in service.
The incident was disclosed on Saturday by former senator representing Ekiti Central, Babafemi Ojudu, who cited information received from a retired general.
According to the report, the retired military officer and his wife were kidnapped while travelling to Katsina town through Matazu Local Government Area of the state.
Daring roadside attack
A message shared by Ojudu indicated that the attackers intercepted the couple’s vehicle and whisked them away to an unknown destination.
The retired general’s driver reportedly escaped from the scene despite sustaining a gunshot wound during the attack.
The message stated that the officer’s red Peugeot 504 vehicle was later recovered and taken to the Matazu Divisional Police Headquarters.
“Maj Gen R. Abubakar, former Director of Defence Information, was kidnapped together with his wife on his way to Katsina today. He was kidnapped along Matazu LGA of Katsina State.
“His driver escaped with gunshot injury. The senior officer’s Peugeot 504, red in colour, is parked at Matazu Divisional Police Headquarters,” the message read.
Authorities yet to react
As of the time of filing this report, neither the Defence Headquarters nor security agencies in Katsina State had officially confirmed the incident.
The development has nevertheless sparked concern, given the retired officer’s prominent role in Nigeria’s military establishment.
Who is Major General Rabe Abubakar (retd.)?
Major General Abubakar served as Director of Defence Information, the public affairs arm of the Defence Headquarters, between 2015 and 2017.
He succeeded Major General Chris Olukolade as Defence spokesman and was one of the key voices communicating military operations and security developments to the public during his tenure.
Growing insecurity concerns
The reported abduction comes amid continued concerns over kidnapping and banditry across parts of northern Nigeria.
Despite intensified security operations, criminal gangs continue to target travellers, communities and prominent individuals, particularly in the North-West region.
Security agencies are expected to provide further details as investigations and rescue efforts continue.
The latest abduction is expected to intensify calls for enhanced security measures on major highways and rural communities in Katsina State, where residents continue to grapple with the threats of banditry, kidnapping and other violent crimes.