Kidnappers withhold wife of deceased former General despite his death in their custody

The abductors of the former Director of Defence Information, retired Major-General Rabe Abubakar, have refused to release his wife, Amina Abubakar, despite the confirmation of the military officer’s death in captivity. 

Major-General Abubakar reportedly died in the kidnappers’ den due to medical complications arising from diabetes and hypertension. 

The retired officer was abducted on Saturday, May 30, 2026, while traveling to Katsina. Gunmen ambushed his vehicle along the Marabar Musawa–Kafinsoli Road in the Matazu Local Government Area. The kidnappers also seized his wife, Amina, and their driver, Abdullahi Sa’idu. 

During their ordeal, videos surfaced online showing the victims pleading with the government to secure their freedom.

Despite the tragic demise of the retired General, the abductors continue to hold his wife hostage. Authorities have not yet confirmed the status or whereabouts of the driver