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The abductors of retired Major General Rabe Abubakar, a former Director of Defence Information, and his wife have released a video showing the couple in captivity while outlining conditions for their freedom. The retired military officer and his wife were kidnapped along the Marabar Musawa–Kafinsoli Road in Matazu Local Government Area of Katsina State near Zakin Baure village while travelling through the area. The four-minute video, which surfaced on social media on Saturday, has sparked widespread concern and renewed attention to the worsening security situation in parts of northern Nigeria.
In the footage, the wife of the retired general appealed directly to the Katsina State Government and the chairmen of Matazu, Musawa, Kankia, Charanchi, and Kusada local government areas to intervene and help secure their release. According to her, the kidnappers are demanding the release of three detained individuals identified as Sani, Aminu, and Nasiru, as well as the return of livestock—including cows and sheep—that they claim were confiscated during previous security operations. She explained that two of the detainees were arrested in Jikamshi, while the third was apprehended in Kano State.
Speaking briefly in the video, General Abubakar called for dialogue and reconciliation, saying the abductors had indicated a willingness to pursue peaceful coexistence if their demands were met. His wife also urged authorities to consider negotiations, arguing that resolving the matter peacefully would help restore security and allow local residents to return to their normal lives without fear. Reports indicate that a notorious bandit leader operating within parts of Katsina State has already established communication with the family regarding the abduction, although officials have not publicly confirmed the development.
As of the time of reporting, neither the Katsina State Government nor the Defence Headquarters had issued an official response to the video or the demands made by the kidnappers. The incident has further highlighted the persistent challenge of kidnapping and banditry across northwestern Nigeria, where security agencies continue to battle heavily armed criminal groups operating from remote forest areas. Analysts say the abduction of a retired senior military officer underscores the growing sophistication and boldness of these groups, intensifying calls for stronger security measures and improved intelligence operations across the region.
