Gen Rabe’s death a painful blow to nation’s security – Atiku

Nigeria is steadily losing ground in its battle against insecurity, a situation underscored by the death of retired Major General Abubakar Rabe while in the custody of bandits, according to former Vice President Atiku Abubakar. Abubakar stated that the incident, along with renewed terrorist attacks in communities in Chibok, Borno State, demonstrates a tragic indictment of the Federal Government's inability to safeguard its citizens.

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Gen Rabe devoted the better part of his life to defending Nigeria. He served this country with honour, courage, and distinction. That such a man could end up dying in the hands of criminals is both heartbreaking and unacceptable.

In a statement issued on Sunday, Abubakar described Rabe's death as "heartbreaking and unacceptable." The former Director of Defence Information was abducted with his wife on May 30, 2026, in Katsina State. Reports indicate he died from complications related to diabetes and hypertension while held captive; his wife remains in kidnappers' custody.

"Gen Rabe devoted the better part of his life to defending Nigeria. He served this country with honour, courage, and distinction. That such a man could end up dying in the hands of criminals is both heartbreaking and unacceptable," Abubakar said. He argued that the general's ordeal exposes the growing vulnerability of Nigerians and reflects a systemic failure within the nation's security architecture.

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His death marks yet another painful blow to our nation's security architecture and a chilling reminder of the vulnerability of even our most experienced military leaders in the face of rampant banditry and terrorism.

Abubakar further drew parallels between Rabe's death and the terrorist attack on Kautikari community in Chibok, where primary and secondary school facilities were burned. He noted that this attack, occurring on the same day Rabe died, reopened deep national wounds, referencing the 2014 abduction of over 270 schoolgirls from Chibok. The former Vice President warned that the current security climate leaves "no Nigerian safe" and sends a dangerous message that even military leaders can no longer rely on the nation for protection.

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Chibok is not just a location; it is a national scar. Since the abduction of more than 270 schoolgirls in April 2014, the name has become a symbol of pain, loss, and collective trauma.