General Rabe’s Son Contradicts Katsina Govt, Says Father Died from Snake Bite in Bandits’ Den

The son of the late retired Major General Rabe Abubakar, Ishak Rabe Abubakar, has challenged the Katsina State Government’s account of the circumstances surrounding his father’s death in captivity.

Speaking during an interview with DW Hausa, Ishak dismissed claims that the former military officer died from complications arising from diabetes, insisting that his father died after being bitten by a snake while being held in a bandits’ camp.

According to him, the family’s account differs significantly from the official statement issued by the Katsina State Government, which had attributed the retired general’s death to health-related complications.

Ishak further disclosed that his mother, who was abducted alongside the late general, remains in the custody of the bandits. He described reports suggesting that she had regained her freedom as false and misleading.

The late Major General Rabe Abubakar (rtd.) was kidnapped alongside his wife near the Matazu area of Katsina State while travelling to attend a wedding ceremony. His death has continued to generate reactions across the country, with renewed calls for intensified efforts to tackle insecurity and secure the release of those still in captivity.

May the soul of the departed rest in perfect peace.