Former army spokesperson, Major General Abubakar Rabe (rtd) who was abducted in Katsina State two weeks ago along with his wife, is dead.

Rabe, was kidnapped around the Matazu area of Katsina while travelling for a wedding was last seen in a video where his captors demanded release of some bandits and seized livestock.

The retired General stated that the abductors had expressed interest in dialogue and peaceful coexistence.

But in a statement on Saturday, Nasiru Mu’azu, Commissioner of Internal Security and Home Affairs in Katsina, said Rabe died from complications of diabetes and hypertension.

“The Katsina State Government, with a heavy heart and deep sense of loss, wishes to inform the general public of the tragic passing of Retired Major General Rabe Abubakar, ” the statement reads.

Here is the statement in full:

KATSINA STATE GOVERNMENT ANNOUNCES THE UNFORTUNATE PASSING OF RETIRED MAJOR GENERAL RABE ABUBAKAR RTD

The Katsina State Government, with a heavy heart and deep sense of loss, wishes to inform the general public of the tragic passing of Retired Major General Rabe Abubakar.

It is with profound sadness that we confirm the General’s death while in bandits captivity. Despite the relentless and concerted efforts of the State Government and various Security Agencies to secure his safe release, the situation ended in this tragedy.

The deceased Retired General died a natural death from complications of diabetes and hypertension.

His abduction and subsequent death are not only a loss to his family and Katsina State but a monumental loss to the entire country.

His Excellency, the Executive Governor of Katsina State Malam Dikko Umaru Radda, PhD, CON, extends his deepest condolences to the family of the late General and the country at-large. The Governor has described this incident as a “dark moment” and a reminder of the urgent need for a collective and intensified front against the criminal elements threatening the peace of our communities.

The Katsina State Government remains committed to working with the Federal Government and security forces to ensure that those responsible for this heinous act are brought to justice. We assure the citizens of Katsina State that our resolve to eliminate banditry and ensure the safety of all residents remains unshaken.

Our thoughts and prayers are with the bereaved family during this difficult time. May the soul of the departed Retired Major General Rabe Abdulakdir rest in eternal peace.

DR. NASIRU MU’AZU,
Hon. Commissioner Internal Security & Home Affairs

“As we commemorate Democracy Day, I extend my heartfelt appreciation and gratitude to everyone of you for your resilience, sacrifice, and unwavering commitment during these challenging times,” he said. “The economic realities facing our nation have tested the strength and endurance of our people, yet you have remained steadfast in your belief that a better Delta State is possible.”

He charged party faithful in the 25 LGAs and the entire people of Delta State to stand firm in the pursuit of justice, fairness, and progress. He acknowledged the peaceful and coordinated protests regarding the INEC ward delineation exercise, which ultimately yielded positive results.

Dr. Unuafe’s vision for a transformed Delta State beyond it rural status stands him out as a professional in project management. According to him, “The massive transformation that lies ahead of us, one that our state has never witnessed before, can only be achieved through unity. Progress cannot flourish where division exists. Development cannot thrive where suspicion and disunity prevail. The Delta of our dreams will not be built by one individual, one community, or one political group. It will be built by all of us working together with a shared sense of purpose and destiny.”

He charged members to be steadfast, noting the greatest task was still ahead, as campaigns heat up towards the 2027 general elections. He sued for a united party devoid of rancour of divisions, so as to achieve the common goal of winning the governorship elections and bringing about massive transformation to a resource-rich but badly managed Delta State, with citizens experiencing acute lack in the midst of plenty.

“The road to 2027 requires greater unity, deeper cooperation, and stronger teamwork than ever before,” he advised. “We must refuse to allow personal interests, misunderstandings, or differences to weaken our collective resolve. The mission before us is far bigger than any individual ambition. It is about restoring hope to millions of Deltans and creating opportunities for generations yet unborn.”

Like all great leaders across the world, Unuafe does not arrogate all knowledge to himself, but assured that he was prune to faults but also ready to accept higher reasoning and a listening ear to members’ concerns.

“Leadership is not about perfection,” he said. “I may not always get everything right in the first instance. There may be moments when my actions or decisions unintentionally offend or disappoint some of you. Whenever that happens, I humbly ask that you find a place in your heart to forgive me. Let us always choose dialogue over division, understanding over resentment, and unity over conflict.”

At a properly monitored election that took place at the Bar Centre, Iyaganku, Oluwatomiwa James Fadeyi, was elected Chairman. He polled 34 to defeat his closest rival, Awere Bolanle Ajoke, who scored 12.

Fadeyi was the President of Adeleke University Students Association, Ede, in his University days.

Others elected to serve with him are: for the position of Secretary, Kayode Kareem; Social Secretary, Bukola Onyewenu and Publicity Secretary, Damilola Israel Olujimi.

Also elected to serve on the executive committee are: for the position of Vice-Chairman, Taiwo Oladipupo; Assistant Secretary, Nifemi Bamisaye and Financial Secretary/Treasurer, Aminat Amoo.

A release signed by Chairman of the electoral Committee, Kehinde Sennuga and Secretary, Basit Oluwatimileyin Busari said the new executives were elected with effect from today.

Fadeyi is Head of Chambers at Adebayo and Gbadamosi Chambers..

Fadairo, in a letter to the Chairman of Ogun State All Progressives Congress (APC) and his (Fadairo) colleagues at the Apex Council of Ifo local government of the party, retracted the endorsenent and tendered unreserved apology to the eadership and entire members of the party in the state.

“I write to inform you regarding the statement credited to me on the alleged endorsement of Hon Ladi Adebutu, the governorship candidate of Peoples Democratic Party when he paid me a visit in my private residence in Abeokuta. I wholeheartedly retract the statement and tender my unreserved apology to our great party, the All Progressives Congress”, Fadairo said.

the elder statesman equally assured of his loyalty to the party, stressing that he would work round the clock alongside other members to ensure victory for the APC in the state and national elections.

He equally apologized to Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, pointing out that the incident looked like mystery to him, explaining that such conduct was not in his character.

“I also want to assure you that I remain a loyal member of the party, All Progressives Congress, and will work round the clock alongside other members across the state towards the victory of the party in the forthcoming poll. Once again, I apologize on the unfortunate and mix up incident, which still look like mystery to me”, he wrote.

As part of preparations for the projects, the Office of Infrastructure in the Ministry of Works and Infrastructure held a stakeholders’ engagement meeting with residents and other affected parties to discuss the scope of work, expected benefits, and possible disruptions during construction.

Speaking at the meeting, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Infrastructure, Mr. Olufemi Daramola, represented by the Permanent Secretary, Office of Infrastructure, Mr. Tokunbo Oyenuga, urged residents to cooperate with the government to facilitate the timely completion of the projects.

According to him, the roads will be reconstructed with concrete pavement technology and complemented with solar-powered street lighting and other modern infrastructure aimed at improving durability, safety, and traffic flow within the estate.

He added that the Ministry would continue to engage stakeholders throughout the project cycle to ensure effective implementation and sustainability of the infrastructure. He also advised property owners to adhere to approved building limits and avoid encroaching on road setbacks.

Responding on behalf of residents, Chairman of the Ikeja GRA Residents Association, Mr. Muiz Banire, represented by Mr. Ade Atobatele, commended the state government for addressing critical infrastructure needs in the area.

He noted that improved road infrastructure would enhance mobility, support economic activities, and contribute to the overall development of the state.

While expressing support for the initiative, he appealed to the government to ensure the timely completion of the projects to minimise disruptions to residents and businesses.

“We urge the government to ensure prompt completion of the road projects to minimise the hardship that residents and businesses may experience during construction. We assure the government of the maximum cooperation of residents towards the success of the projects,” he said.

The contractors handling the projects assured stakeholders of their commitment to delivering the roads on schedule, describing the works as an investment in community growth and long-term development.

Stakeholders at the meeting also called on the government to address concerns raised during the engagement process to ensure the successful execution of the projects.

Wike stated this in Abuja on Thursday, during the inauguration of the full-scope development of FCT Highway 105, from Airport Expressway to Kuje Junction.

Tinubu was represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima to celebrate his third year in office.

The minister said that the dual development of the Abuja city centre and the satellite towns, including hard to reach communities by the Tinubu administration was unprecedented.

He described the government as simply an “institution that provides basic infrastructure and visible facilities that improves the quality of life of the people”.

“Your Excellency, history will be on your side for what your administration has done for the satellite towns in FCT.

“I want to say to anybody, when people ask, ‘where is the government?’ tell them Kuje road is government; when they ask, ‘where is government?’ say Kuje to Gwagwalada Road is the government,” he said.

He said what the Tinubu administration did in the first six months in office was to dualise the road from Tipper Garage to LEA Secretariat in Kuje.

“But the challenge was, how do you come into Kuje? Even if you go through Gwagwalada, you will stop somewhere you can’t pass,” he said.

He pointed out that before the construction of the FCT Highway 105, there was no safe and smooth road to Kuje.

He said: “The road was not in existence. It was a death trap. It was safe for kidnappers and hooligans trying to molest, harass citizens and residents of Kuje.

“We may think, oh it’s an ordinary road, anybody can do it. If that was so, they would have done it.

“This is one road that I never dreamt of, that today, we will come to inaugurate. It was a very, very difficult road. In fact, it became a political road.

“Your Excellency, today I feel so happy. If there is anything that makes me very happy today is that we are inaugurating this particular road”.

He explained that the completed project, which was awarded in 2022 followed an appeal by Kuje traditional rulers, who requested that the project be resuscitated and completed.

He added that the traditional rulers also requested the dualisation of Kuje to Gwagwalada, which is being executed in phases with the first phase ready for inauguration.

The minister amplified Tinubu’s call on residents to pay ground rents and other statutory fees to enable the FCT Administration extend the highway to Nasarawa state.

While inaugurating the project, Tinubu said: “When I appointed Wike, I did so because he delivers.

“Where there were delays, we brought political will and where there were obstructions, we paid compensation because we respect the law and value progress.

“Beyond the concrete and asphalt, these projects speak to a larger vision. The Renewed Hope Agenda is not just for the city centre. True democracy must prevail at the grassroots.

“It must prevail in Kuje and the commuter coming from or going to Kuje must feel it. Every Nigerian must feel it.

“To the FCT minister, you have proven once again that when we give a task to a performer, the results speak for themselves”.

Earlier, Mr Richard Dauda, acting Executive Secretary, Federal Capital Development Authority, explained that the FCT Administration awarded the contract to Arab Contractors Nig. Ltd in 2022.

Dauda said that the FCT Highway 105 is a key regional road that traverses the FCT right from the Murtala Muhammed Expressway, down to the south to connect the Abuja-Abaji-Nasarawa Road in the southern part of the FCT.

He said that the 76-kilometre road is planned to link other future federal roads to the FCT and other parts of the country through Nasarawa State.

He however said that the current scope, a six lane 8.6-kilometre road, from the Airport Expressway to Kuje was the first stage of the full development of the highway, with other stages to follow in due course.

“The scope of works for this project includes the construction of about 8.6 km of two main carriage ways, each of three lanes in both directions, making it a six-lane dual carriage way.

“The completion of this project has greatly reduced the travel time, increased circulation and opened up the districts in Kuje – Wawa District, Giri District, and the interconnection to the Airport Expressway.

“It has also improved security in the area as well as improved the socioeconomic lives of the residents, in addition to other inherent benefits which have attracted significant investments in this area.

“The road will also serve as an alternative road to the Gwagwalada and the Abaji-Abuja-Lokoja Road when completed,” he said.

According to a statement issued by the spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kimiebi Ebienfa, a special evacuation flight operated by Air Peace Airline arrived at the International Wing of the Murtala Mohammed International Airport, Lagos, on Thursday at 10.25 a.m.

The nationals were escorted by officials of the Nigerian Mission in South Africa, led by the Acting High Commissioner, Amb. Temitope Alexander Ajayi.

They were officially received at the airport by the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Amb. Sola Enikanolaiye, on behalf of the Federal Government.

The Minister said the evacuation of the 258 nationals demonstrated Federal Government’s commitment to the welfare and safety of Nigerians abroad.

Addressing the returnees, Enikanolaiye said that the government would not tolerate subjecting Nigerians to attacks and harassment wherever they might be.

He commended effective coordination of the process by the High Commission of Nigeria in Pretoria and urged all Nigerians in South Africa to remain law-abiding, vigilant, and report any threats to the Nigerian mission.

“The Federal Government remains fully engaged with the South African authorities at the highest levels to ensure protection of Nigerian nationals and to address the root causes of these unfortunate incidents,” he said.

He noted that the evacuation was coordinated by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in collaboration with the Nigerian High Commission in Pretoria,

Other stakeholders include the Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs, Ministry of Aviation, Federal Ministry of Health, Nigeria Immigration Service, and security agencies, according to him.

“This exercise underscores the government’s proactive and decisive response to protect Nigerians’ lives and dignity in the face of violence and intolerance.

“No Nigerian should live in fear simply because of their nationality,” he said.

He said that the evacuation did not signal defeat but showed the proactive and citizen-centred foreign policy of the President Bola Tinubu administration.

“More flights carrying returnees are expected to arrive in the country in the coming days as the evacuation exercise continues,” he said.

According to him, the returning nationals are currently undergoing the process of documentation, profiling and necessary medical checks.

He said that they would be provided with temporary accommodation before reuniting them with their families.

The Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Interior, Magdalene Ajani disclosed this in a statement on Thursday in Abuja.

Ajani said that the Minister of Interior, Dr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, made the declaration on behalf of the federal government.

Tunji-Ojo reaffirmed the federal government’s commitment to the preservation of democratic ideals, rule of law, transparency, accountability and inclusive governance.

He assured that the ministry in collaboration with relevant security agencies would continue to take appropriate measures in maintaining and strengthening Nigeria’s internal security.

The minister noted that a secured and stable environment was essential to democracy and national development.

He urged Nigerians to see the holiday as an opportunity for civic reflection.

“As we mark this historic day, every Nigerian is encouraged to remain law-abiding, uphold the institutions that sustain our democracy, and remember that the strength of any democracy lies ultimately in the character of its citizens,” he said.

He also said that June 12 every year remained a significant day in Nigeria’s history in honour of the courage, resilience and sacrifices of Nigerians whose efforts made democratic governance possible.

“Their legacies continue to inform the values and responsibilities of the Nigerian state,”Tunji-Ojo added.

The recovered weapons were allegedly linked to the Indigenous People of Biafra and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network.

The operation, carried out by troops of the 82 Division Garrison as part of the ongoing Operation EASTERN SANITY II, followed intelligence reports aimed at degrading the operational capacity of IPOB/ESN in the South-East region.

According to a statement issued on Thursday by Lieutenant Colonel Olabisi Olalekan Ayeni, Acting Deputy Director, Army Public Relations, 82 Division Nigerian Army, the latest success came days after troops recorded a breakthrough operation at Gariki in Enugu South Local Government Area on June 9.

Ayeni said troops subsequently raided a suspected safe house in Agbani, Nkanu West Local Government Area of Enugu State, where they uncovered a clandestine arms hideout.

He disclosed that a thorough search of the apartment led to the recovery of additional weapons, ammunition and other items allegedly linked to the group.

Items recovered during the operation included AK-47 rifles, AK-47 magazines, 323 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition and 10 pairs of IPOB uniforms.

The Army spokesman said all recovered items, alongside arrested suspects, had been handed over to the DSS Enugu State Command for further investigation and possible prosecution.

He noted that the operation forms part of sustained intelligence-driven offensives by security agencies to dismantle criminal and terrorist networks capable of undermining ongoing peace-building efforts in the South-East.

Ayeni said the success demonstrated Operation UDO KA’s commitment to maintaining pressure on violent groups and ensuring the safety of residents across the region.

He reaffirmed the military’s dedication to protecting lives, preserving national sovereignty and supporting efforts aimed at achieving lasting peace and stability in the South-East.

The Army also urged members of the public to continue providing timely and credible information to security agencies, stressing that community support remains vital to ongoing security operations in the region.

The donation was made during a condolence and solidarity visit to the community following the recent abduction of teachers and pupils in the area.

Speaking during the visit, Onireti expressed optimism that the kidnapped teachers and pupils would soon regain their freedom, noting that government authorities were actively working to secure their safe return.

He urged residents to remain hopeful and prayerful, assuring them that efforts by security agencies and relevant stakeholders were yielding positive results.

“We have the assurance that the teachers and pupils will return in peace. Government is working tirelessly to ensure their safe release. We are here to identify with the people of Esinele and to support the community in this difficult period,” he said.

An emotional moment occurred during the visit when Hon. Olufemi Onireti was overwhelmed with emotion and broke down in tears while addressing mothers and relatives of the abducted teachers and pupils.
Struggling to hold back his emotions as some of the women wept openly, Onireti assured them that their loved ones would return safely.

He urged them not to lose hope, stressing that the government and security agencies were doing everything possible to secure their release.

“Your children will return in peace. We share in your pain, and we will continue to pray and support you until they are reunited with their families,” he said, drawing further tears from many members of the gathering.

Onireti added that the medical supplies donated to the community would improve access to basic healthcare services and provide relief to residents.

As part of the visit, the City Boys Movement director also presented a cash donation of ₦1 million to the family of late Michael Oyedokun, one of the teachers affected by the tragic incident.

He further announced scholarship awards for the late teacher’s sons, Oyedokun Abiodun and Samuel Oyedokun, to support their educational pursuits.

The Elesinele of Esinele, High Chief Tajudeen Abioye, commended both the Federal and Oyo State Governments for their interventions and support since the unfortunate incident occurred.

He thanked President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Governor Seyi Makinde for their concern and commitment toward resolving the situation.

According to the traditional leader, government emissaries who have visited the community assured residents that efforts were ongoing to secure the release of the abducted teachers and pupils.

Abioye, however, appealed to the authorities to intensify and expedite actions aimed at ensuring the victims regain their freedom without delay.

“We appreciate the Federal and State Governments for standing by us during this difficult time. We have received assurances from government representatives that the teachers and pupils will be released. We appeal that all necessary steps be taken to hasten their return to their families,” he said.

The visit brought hope and encouragement to residents, as community leaders and stakeholders continued to seek the safe return of the abducted teachers and pupils while supporting affected families.