The presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Atiku Abubakar, has criticised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s handling of the country’s security situation, following the death of retired Major General Abubakar Rabe in bandits’ captivity.
In a statement issued by his media office on Sunday, Atiku described the incident as a “damning indictment” of the Federal Government’s inability to protect Nigerians, arguing that insecurity in the country has worsened under the current administration.
He said the death of the former Director of Defence Information was heartbreaking and unacceptable, noting that General Rabe dedicated his life to serving and defending Nigeria.
Atiku stated that the retired General was abducted on May 30, 2026, alongside his wife in Katsina State, adding that his death while in captivity highlights the growing vulnerability of Nigerians to criminal gangs.
He also claimed that reports suggested the retired officer died from complications related to diabetes and hypertension while efforts to secure his release failed.
According to him, the incident reflects a broader failure of the nation’s security architecture, where even senior military officers are no longer safe from kidnappers and terrorists.
Atiku further referenced a simultaneous attack in Kautikari community, Chibok Local Government Area of Borno State, where suspected terrorists reportedly burned school buildings.
He described Chibok as a “national scar,” recalling the 2014 abduction of schoolgirls, and said the latest attack reopens painful memories for affected families and communities.
The former Vice President also expressed concern over continued abductions across the country, including schoolchildren and teachers still held captive in different states.
He argued that the burning of schools while citizens remain in captivity shows that insecurity is worsening and not improving.
Atiku called for urgent and decisive action from the Federal Government, insisting that empty promises and routine condemnations were no longer sufficient.
He reiterated his earlier call for a state of emergency on security, urging authorities to dismantle criminal networks and restore public confidence in the country’s ability to protect lives and property.
He also extended condolences to the family of the late General Rabe and called for prayers for the safe release of his wife and other Nigerians in captivity.