Troops Rescue Widow of Late General Rabe After Bandits Shoot Her During Katsina Operation

By Rose Peter Graham

The Nigerian military has rescued Hajiya Amina Abubakar, the widow of late retired Major General Rabe Abubakar, following weeks of captivity in the hands of bandits in Katsina State.

The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) confirmed the development on Monday, describing the rescue as a major breakthrough in ongoing military operations targeting criminal groups operating across parts of northwestern Nigeria.

Mrs. Abubakar was abducted alongside her husband on May 30, 2026, when armed bandits ambushed their vehicle along the Marabar Musawa–Kafinsoli Road in Matazu Local Government Area of Katsina State.

The couple was reportedly travelling to attend a wedding ceremony when the attackers struck, forcibly taking them into captivity.

The incident attracted national attention due to General Rabe’s distinguished military career and the growing concerns over insecurity and kidnapping in several parts of the country.

Tragic Death of Former Military General

Days after the abduction, authorities confirmed the death of retired Major General Rabe Abubakar while still in captivity.

Reports indicated that the retired officer suffered health complications during his ordeal, triggering widespread condemnation and renewed calls for stronger action against banditry and kidnapping.

President Bola Tinubu had earlier expressed sadness over the former military officer’s death and vowed that the government would continue its campaign against terrorists, kidnappers and other criminal groups operating across the country.

The President also extended condolences to the family while expressing hope that Mrs. Abubakar would be rescued safely.

Military Operation Leads to Rescue

According to a statement issued by the Director of Defence Information, Major General Samaila Uba, troops of Operation FASAN YAMMA intensified search-and-rescue efforts immediately after receiving intelligence regarding the movement of the kidnappers.

The military operation reportedly led troops to Tunga Village, where security forces engaged in a sustained offensive against the fleeing criminals.

Faced with advancing troops and increasing military pressure, the bandits reportedly shot Mrs. Abubakar before abandoning her and escaping into nearby areas.

The Defence Headquarters said troops immediately secured the area and evacuated her for urgent medical treatment.

According to the military, the operation forms part of broader efforts to dismantle criminal networks responsible for kidnapping, banditry and violent attacks across the region.

Receiving Medical Attention

The DHQ disclosed that Mrs. Abubakar is currently receiving treatment at a military medical facility.

Military authorities said she is responding positively to treatment and remains under close medical supervision.

“Mrs. Abubakar was immediately evacuated and is currently receiving medical attention at a military hospital, where she is responding to treatment,” the statement said.

Officials have not released further details regarding the extent of her injuries, but security sources indicated that medical personnel are working to ensure her full recovery.

Renewed Commitment to Fight Banditry

Major General Uba stated that the Armed Forces of Nigeria remain committed to eliminating terrorist and criminal elements threatening peace and security across the country.

According to him, military leadership is providing comprehensive support to Mrs. Abubakar and her family while simultaneously intensifying efforts to track down those responsible for the abduction.

The military spokesman noted that ongoing operations in Katsina and neighbouring states are aimed at dismantling criminal hideouts, disrupting kidnapping networks and restoring confidence among residents.

He assured Nigerians that security forces would continue pursuing the perpetrators until they are brought to justice.

Growing Security Challenges in the Northwest

The abduction of General Rabe and his wife once again highlighted the security challenges facing several communities in northwestern Nigeria.

Katsina State, along with neighbouring Zamfara, Sokoto and parts of Kaduna State, has witnessed repeated incidents of banditry, kidnapping and attacks on rural communities in recent years.

Despite sustained military operations and increased deployment of security personnel, criminal groups continue to exploit remote areas and forest corridors to carry out attacks.

Security experts have repeatedly called for stronger intelligence gathering, improved surveillance capabilities and greater cooperation between communities and security agencies.

The issue has also fueled renewed debates about security reforms, including the push for state police and expanded community policing initiatives.

Hope Amid Tragedy

While the rescue of Mrs. Abubakar has been welcomed by many Nigerians, the loss of her husband remains a painful reminder of the human cost of insecurity.

The development has generated fresh calls for authorities to intensify efforts aimed at protecting citizens and preventing similar incidents.

For the Abubakar family, the rescue brings relief after weeks of uncertainty, even as they continue to mourn the death of the retired military officer.

As military operations continue across Katsina State, authorities say their focus remains on rescuing other victims, dismantling criminal networks and ensuring that those responsible for violent crimes face justice.