Nigerian army rescues wife of ex-general who died in captivity

Nigeria's military announced the successful rescue of Amina Abubakar, the wife of a retired Major General who tragically died while held captive. The operation to free Mrs. Abubakar followed intensified search and rescue efforts in Katsina state, where she and her husband, Maj Gen Rabe Abubakar, were abducted late last month.

During the rescue operation, troops reportedly came into contact with the bandits holding Mrs. Abubakar. The military stated that the kidnappers shot her before fleeing as the troops advanced. She has since been taken to a military hospital for treatment. A statement from the military confirmed the successful recovery of Mrs. Abubakar and emphasized the leadership's commitment to her full recovery and support for her family.

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We are deeply grateful to Allah for His mercy and protection. Our mummy has been rescued from the hands of evil by the Nigerian Army. We pray that Allah grants her good health, complete recovery, peace of mind, and strength after everything she has been through.

One of the couple's daughters, Bilkisu, expressed deep gratitude for her mother's rescue via WhatsApp, praying for her mother's health, recovery, peace of mind, and strength. Maj Gen Abubakar's death in captivity was attributed to health complications, possibly linked to diabetes and high blood pressure, according to officials. His remains were buried on Saturday.

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During sustained offensive operations and pressure mounted on the criminal elements, troops made contact with the bandits… leading to the successful recovery of Mrs Abubakar.

President Bola Tinubu expressed shock at the general's death, calling it a stark reminder of the threat posed by armed criminal groups in the region. The military leadership has vowed to continue operations to track down the kidnappers responsible for the abductions. No group has yet claimed responsibility for the incidents.

In north-west Nigeria, criminal gangs known locally as 'bandits' are frequently involved in kidnappings for ransom, cattle rustling, and attacks on rural communities. The region also faces threats from militant jihadists. Earlier this month, a video surfaced showing the retired general and his wife appealing to the Katsina government to release detained bandits and their livestock in exchange for their freedom.

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The armed forces leadership remained committed to ensuring her full recovery and was providing all necessary support to her family.