From Atiku Sarki, Abuja
The Defence Headquarters has regretted to announce the passing of Major General Rabe Abubakar (retd.), who tragically lost his life in captivity following his abduction.
In a statement issued in Abuja by the Director of Defence Information, Major General Samaila Uba, the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) conveyed its deepest sympathies to the Abubakar family, his colleagues, and Nigerians at large.
“Maj. Gen. Abubakar served the nation with distinction and held several appointments, including spokesperson of various military formations as well as spokesman for the Armed Forces of Nigeria as Director of Defence Information.
He made immense contributions to counter-insurgency operations, the professional development of the AFN, and numerous other commendable achievements.
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.
The Defence Headquarters further stated that it withheld public comment on his abduction in deference to ongoing rescue efforts by the Armed Forces and sister security agencies, adding that every operational resource was deployed in the hope of securing his safe return.
“This sad loss further strengthens the resolve of the AFN. We will remain resolute in the discharge of our constitutional mandate to defend the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Nigeria and to protect all citizens,” it added.
“In response to a series of unfortunate abductions across Nigeria, including that of Maj. Gen. Abubakar, ongoing operations have been further intensified to bring perpetrators to justice and dismantle all terrorist networks threatening our nation.
“We assure Nigerians that the Armed Forces will not relent until peace and security are restored, and those responsible for terrorist activities across the country are held to account,” the statement concluded.
