DHQ Vows Nationwide Manhunt as Military Pledges Justice for Slain Retired Major General Rabe Abubakar in Katsina

The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has pledged a coordinated manhunt and prosecution of those responsible for the killing of retired Major General Rabe Abubakar, assuring that the perpetrators will be tracked down and brought to justice.

This commitment was made on Sunday during a condolence visit by a high-level military delegation to the family of the late senior officer in Katsina State, as well as to the state government.

The delegation, led by the Chief of Administration (Army), Major General IM Abdullahi, represented the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General OO Oluyede, and the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN). The team was in Katsina to formally commiserate with the family and honour the memory of the late officer.

Speaking during the visit to the residence of the deceased, Major General Abdullahi described the late Abubakar as a patriotic and disciplined officer whose career in the Nigerian Army spanned more than three decades of distinguished service.

He noted that the retired general’s contributions reflected “exceptional dedication, professionalism, and sacrifice,” adding that his legacy would continue to serve as a reference point for serving personnel in the Armed Forces.

Beyond paying tribute, the military delegation issued a firm assurance that security agencies would work in synergy to identify, apprehend, and prosecute those behind the killing.

As part of military honours, a Nigerian national flag was presented to the bereaved family in recognition of the late officer’s service to the nation.

On behalf of the family, Alhaji Dikko Mu’azu Ruma, the Gado da Masun Katsina, expressed appreciation to the Chief of Defence Staff and the Armed Forces for their solidarity during the mourning period. He described the loss as painful but submitted to the inevitability of death, praying for the peaceful repose of the deceased.

The delegation also paid a courtesy visit to the Katsina State Government House, where they were received by Deputy Governor Mallam Faruk Lawal Jobe, who represented Governor Dikko Umaru Radda.

The Deputy Governor described the late Major General Abubakar as a proud son of Katsina whose service to Nigeria would remain a lasting source of inspiration. He also reiterated the need for strengthened collaboration between security agencies and the state government in addressing the worsening security situation in the North-West.

In response, the military delegation commended the state government for its continued cooperation with security forces, stressing that sustained joint efforts remain critical to defeating terrorism and other violent threats in the region.

Prayers were offered for the repose of the soul of the late Major General Abubakar during both visits, with senior military officers, traditional rulers, and notable indigenes of Katsina in attendance.