Amina Abubakar, the widow of the late Rabe Abubakar, has been rescued by soldiers during military operations against bandits in Katsina State, the Defence Headquarters announced on Monday.
Mrs Abubakar was kidnapped with her husband on May 30 along the Marabar Musawa, Kafinsoli Road in Matazu Local Government Area.
Her rescue happened just two days after the military confirmed that her husband, a former Director of Defence Information, had died while in captivity.
In a statement on Monday, the Director of Defence Information, Samaila Uba, said troops from Operation FANSAN YAMMA, with support from the Nigerian Air Force, rescued Mrs Abubakar during intensified search-and-rescue efforts targeting the bandits who took her.
According to him, the troops faced off with the bandits at Tunga village during the ongoing operations, which led to her recovery.
“During sustained offensive operations and mounting pressure on the criminal elements, troops made contact with the bandits at Tunga Village, leading to the successful recovery of Mrs Abubakar,” Major-General Uba said.
He added that the bandits shot Mrs Abubakar before abandoning her as they fled under pressure from the troops.
“In the course of the encounter, the bandits shot Mrs Abubakar before abandoning her and fleeing under the overwhelming pressure from advancing troops,” he stated.
Medical Care
The military said Mrs Abubakar was quickly moved to a military medical facility, where she is receiving treatment.
The Defence Headquarters mentioned that she is responding well to medical care.
Mr Uba said the armed forces are committed to the welfare of their personnel and their families and will continue to support them during this tough time.
Ongoing Military Operations
Mrs Abubakar’s rescue comes during Operation CLEAN SWEEP III, a military offensive started after the abduction and death of the retired general.
The operation, led by troops of the Joint Task Force North West Operation FANSAN YAMMA, targets terrorist and bandit hideouts in Matazu Local Government Area and surrounding areas.
Military sources said troops have carried out intelligence-led raids, clearance operations, and fighting patrols in known criminal hideouts, including areas in Karaduwa, Adua, Nasarawa, and the Dikkawa Hills.
The military aims to dismantle criminal networks and ensure that those responsible for the abduction and death of the retired officer face justice.
Family's Pain
The rescue brings some relief to the family after days of uncertainty following the death of Mr Abubakar in captivity.
The retired officer and his wife were kidnapped while on their way to a wedding ceremony in Katsina State.
A video later surfaced, showing the couple in captivity, with the kidnappers demanding the release of three detained individuals named Sani, Aminu, and Nasiru for their freedom.
The death of the retired general caused great concern and reignited discussions about insecurity and kidnapping in northern Nigeria.
While Mrs Abubakar has regained her freedom, military authorities said operations will continue until they catch those responsible for her husband’s abduction and killing.
“Troops will sustain ongoing operations to track down and neutralise the perpetrators while intensifying efforts to rid affected communities of terrorists, not only in Katsina State but across the country,” Mr Uba said.
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