The Nigerian Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has explained why it did not make any public statement about the abduction of retired Major General Rabe Abubakar before news of his death emerged, saying the decision was taken to avoid disrupting efforts aimed at securing his release.
The military made the clarification on Saturday, 13 June, 2026, while announcing the death of the retired senior officer, who died while in captivity after being abducted by his captors on 30 May, 2026.
The Defence Headquarters, in a statement signed by Major General Samaila Uba, Director Defence Information, said it deliberately withheld public comment on the incident because security agencies were actively working to rescue the retired general.
The military said that every available operational resource was deployed in an attempt to secure Abubakar’s safe return, noting that public silence on the matter was necessary while the rescue mission was ongoing.
“The Defence Headquarters withheld public comment on his abduction in deference to ongoing rescue efforts by the AFN and sister security agencies. Every operational resource was deployed in the hope of securing his safe return,” the statement said.
The announcement brought an end to concerns surrounding the retired officer, whose death has been described by the military as a painful loss not only to his family but also to the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) and the country as a whole.
The DHQ expressed deep sympathy to the Abubakar family, his former colleagues and Nigerians, noting that the retired major general dedicated many years of his life to national service.
The military recalled that Abubakar served in several important positions during his career. Among other roles, he worked as spokesperson for different military formations and later served as Director Defence Information, making him the spokesman of the Armed Forces of Nigeria.
The statement revealed that he played significant roles in counter-insurgency operations and contributed to the professional development of the armed forces.
The military also said Abubakar’s commitment to national unity and duty remained an example for serving personnel.
While mourning his death, the Defence Headquarters said the tragedy would not weaken ongoing efforts against terrorism and insecurity. Instead, the DHQ maintained that the incident had strengthened the military’s determination to carry out its constitutional responsibilities and protect Nigerians.
The DHQ also linked Abubakar’s abduction to a wider pattern of kidnappings and terrorist activities recorded in different parts of the country. It disclosed that security operations had already been intensified in response to such incidents.
Ongoing operations, according to the military, are focused on tracking down those responsible for kidnappings and other violent crimes, while also targeting terrorist networks operating across the country.
“This sad loss further strengthens the resolve of the AFN. We will remain resolute in the discharge of our constitutional mandate to defend the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Nigeria and to protect all citizens,” the statement declared.
The Defence Headquarters assured Nigerians that security agencies would continue to pursue those responsible for acts of terrorism and insecurity until they are brought to justice.
It stated that the Armed Forces would not relent in its efforts to restore peace and security across the country, stressing that all individuals and groups involved in terrorist activities would be held accountable.