Son of Retired General Rabe Abubakar Speaks on Father's Death

Isyaka Rabe-Abubakar, son of the late Rabe Abubakar, a retired major general who was killed by bandits, says his father died a martyr.

He stated that the family accepted the military officer’s death as God's will, despite the circumstances.

The retired general was kidnapped with his wife on May 30 along the Matazu-Katsina Road.

The Katsina State Government announced his death on Saturday, while his wife is still being held.

In an interview with journalists in Katsina on Sunday, Mr Rabe-Abubakar expressed gratitude to God despite their painful loss.

“We believe what happened to our father was destined by Allah.

“We believe he died a martyr and will be granted a place in Paradise,” he said.

He described his late father as a mentor, a deeply religious man, and a humble person who lived a peaceful life.

According to him, the former military officer spent his life guiding others and showing kindness.

“If you did not know him, when you saw him, you would never know who he was.

“He was humble, peaceful, and always willing to guide others,” the deceased’s son added.

Mr Rabe-Abubakar noted that his father’s simplicity often hid his achievements and rank in the military.

He explained that the family has continued to draw strength from their faith during this tough time.

On how his father's body was released, he said only the government could provide information.

He added that the family was unsure of the exact cause of the retired general’s death.

“Some people said it was a snake bite, while others mentioned tetanus. Only Allah knows the exact cause of his death,” Mr Rabe-Abubakar said.

The deceased’s son also revealed that his mother is still with the kidnappers.

He prayed for her safe return and urged for ongoing efforts to secure her freedom.

Mr Isyaka condemned those responsible for his father’s abduction and death.

“We will not forgive those behind this act,” he declared.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the late retired general was previously the Director of Defence Information.

His family remembered him as a disciplined officer, a mentor, and a man dedicated to peaceful living.