Fresh details have emerged regarding the death of former Director of Defence Information, Major General Rabe Abubakar (retd.), with his widow alleging that the retired military officer died from a snake bite while being held captive by terrorists in Katsina State.
The revelation appears to contradict the Katsina State Government’s earlier position that the retired general died as a result of complications arising from his death.
According to reports which cited sources who spoke with Hajiya Amina Abubakar during her treatment following her rescue, the widow maintained that her husband was healthy and had no history of diabetes or hypertension before they were abducted.
Major General Abubakar and his wife were kidnapped on May 30, 2026, along the Marabar Musawa–Kafinsoli Road in Matazu Local Government Area of Katsina State. While the retired officer later died in captivity, his wife recently regained her freedom despite sustaining a gunshot wound during the ordeal.
A source familiar with the widow’s account disclosed that she noticed a sudden swelling in one of her husband’s legs while they were being held by their captors. According to the source, the terrorists informed her that the retired general had likely been bitten by a snake.
The source further stated that the kidnappers allegedly attempted to treat the swollen leg using mashed leaves and other local remedies. However, the treatment reportedly failed to improve his condition as his health deteriorated rapidly.
Recalling the painful experience, the source said Hajiya Amina revealed that her husband eventually died in her arms, describing the moment as one of the most traumatic experiences of her life.
It was also gathered that while General Rabe was still alive, the terrorists allegedly considered releasing his wife. However, she reportedly refused to leave, insisting that she would only regain her freedom alongside her husband.
Following the retired officer’s death, the Defence Headquarters disclosed that it deliberately avoided making public statements about the abduction to prevent jeopardising ongoing rescue efforts. The military said significant resources were deployed in an attempt to secure the couple’s release.
Meanwhile, security sources disclosed that investigations are ongoing into the circumstances surrounding the terrorists’ attempt to abandon their hideout shortly before troops arrived for a rescue operation.
Authorities are reportedly examining whether information about the planned mission may have been leaked, raising concerns about possible sabotage.
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