A retired Nigerian military normal who was kidnapped by an armed group in northwestern Nigeria has died in custody, the army has introduced.
Main Normal Rabe Abubakar, who held the high-profile job as army spokesperson from 2015 to 2017, was kidnapped alongside along with his spouse whereas touring in Katsina state final month.
No group claims it was behind the kidnapping.
Abubakar’s abduction and loss of life spotlight the persevering with safety challenges dealing with components of northwestern Nigeria. There, legal gangs recognized domestically as “bandits” steadily perform kidnappings for ransom, cattle rustling, and raids on rural areas.
Some radical jihadists are additionally energetic within the space. An alleged militant camp in Sokoto state was focused by a US airstrike on December 25 final yr.
Katsina is among the states hardest hit by violence.
Native media reported that the retired police officer was on his approach to attend a marriage on Might 30 when gunmen attacked his automobile and detained him, his spouse, and the driving force.
Days earlier than information of his loss of life broke, a video shared on social media confirmed Abubakar being held captive. He was seen with an obvious damage to his left leg alongside along with his spouse and different hostages.
The army stated it selected to not remark publicly on the kidnapping whereas efforts have been underway to free the prisoners.
“Out of respect for the continued rescue efforts by safety companies, the army declined to make any public remark whereas all operational assets are dedicated to making sure his secure return,” the assertion stated.
The whereabouts and situation of Mr. Abubakar’s spouse stay unknown. Nevertheless, a army spokesperson stated: “Ongoing operations have since been additional intensified to carry the perpetrators to justice and dismantle all terrorist networks that threaten our nation.”
The army paid tribute to the main normal, and native media described his loss of life as “tragic”, saying he was 61 years outdated on the time of his loss of life, and expressed condolences to his household and former colleagues.
The assertion stated he “made vital contributions to counter-insurgency operations… His dedication to the mission and the unity of Nigeria continues to be a shining instance to all members.”
