Retired Major General Rabe Abubakar, a former director of defence information, has died while in the custody of bandits after weeks in captivity.
The Katsina State Government confirmed his death on Saturday, saying he died from complications linked to diabetes and hypertension while being held by his abductors.
Mr Abubakar and his wife were kidnapped in May while travelling through Katsina State.
Days before his death, a video circulated online showing the retired military officer and his wife appealing to the Katsina State Government to meet the demands of the bandits in exchange for their release.
In a statement issued by the commissioner for internal security and home affairs Nasiru Mu’azu, the government said efforts by the state government and security agencies to secure his release were unsuccessful.
“It is with sadness that we confirm the General’s death while in bandits’ captivity,” the statement said.
The government said Abubakar’s death was a loss to his family, Katsina State and the country.
Governor Dikko Radda extended condolences to the family, saying the incident showed the need for stronger action against insecurity and criminal groups operating across communities.
The state government also said it would continue working with the federal government and security agencies to ensure those responsible for the abduction are brought to justice.
It added that efforts to tackle banditry and improve security across the state would continue.
Rabe Abubakar served as director of defence information at Nigeria’s Defence Headquarters during his time in the military.
