By Harriet Tornguvan
The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has expressed deep sorrow over the death of retired Major General Rabe Abubakar, who reportedly died while in captivity after being abducted by unknown assailants.
In a statement issued by the Director of Defence Information, Major General Samaila Uba, the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) described the late senior officer as a dedicated patriot whose service to the nation left an enduring legacy in the military and national security architecture.
According to the statement, Major General Abubakar served Nigeria with distinction in various capacities during his military career, including as spokesman for several military formations and later as Director of Defence Information, where he served as the official spokesperson of the Armed Forces.
The Defence Headquarters noted that the late officer made significant contributions to counter-insurgency operations, military professionalism and the overall development of the AFN.
“His commitment to duty and to the unity of Nigeria remains a shining example for all personnel of the Armed Forces of Nigeria,” the statement said.
DHQ disclosed that it deliberately refrained from making public comments on the retired general's abduction while efforts were ongoing to secure his release. It explained that all available operational resources were deployed by the military and other security agencies in a bid to rescue him safely.
The military authorities extended their condolences to the Abubakar family, colleagues, associates and Nigerians at large over the tragic loss.
While mourning the retired general, the Defence Headquarters reaffirmed its determination to intensify ongoing operations against terrorists, kidnappers and other criminal elements responsible for insecurity across the country.
It stated that the unfortunate death of Major General Abubakar, alongside other incidents of abduction nationwide, has further strengthened the resolve of the Armed Forces to dismantle terrorist networks and bring perpetrators to justice.
"The Armed Forces will remain resolute in the discharge of its constitutional mandate to defend the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Nigeria and to protect all citizens," the statement added.
DHQ assured Nigerians that security operations have been intensified across various theatres and pledged that the military would not relent until peace and security are fully restored and those behind terrorist activities are held accountable.
The late Major General Abubakar was widely respected within military circles for his professionalism, leadership and contributions to strategic military communications during his years of service. His death has elicited widespread condolences from security stakeholders and members of the public.
