Kwankwaso consoles with family of Late Major General Rabe Abubakar in Katsina

Obituaries

KANO, Nigeria (NPA) — Vice Presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, has paid a condolence visit to the family of the late Major General Rabe Abubakar (Rtd), following his tragic death while in captivity.

The Katsina State Government announced on June 13, 2026, that General Abubakar, abducted alongside his wife, died while in the custody of bandits. His passing has drawn widespread grief across Nigeria’s military and political circles.

Kwankwaso, a former Kano State Governor, described the late officer as “a gallant, patriotic, and dedicated officer who served Nigeria with honour, courage, and distinction throughout his career.”

In a statement personally issued on Wednesday, he said prayers were offered for Allah’s mercy on Abubakar’s soul, comfort for his grieving family, and lasting peace and security across the nation. He also prayed for the swift recovery of Mrs Amina Abubakar, who has regained her freedom.

“May Almighty Allah grant him Al‑Jannatul Firdaus and forgive his shortcomings. Ameen,” Kwankwaso added.

Meanwhile, Newpost Africa reports that troops of the Nigerian Army, supported by the Nigerian Air Force, successfully rescued Mrs Abubakar during intensified search‑and‑rescue operations under Operation FASAN YAMMA.

According to a statement signed by Major General Samaila Uba, Director Defence Information, troops made contact with bandits at Tunga Village. In the encounter, Mrs Abubakar was shot before the criminals fled under overwhelming military pressure. She was immediately evacuated to a military hospital, where she is responding positively to treatment.