A high‑powered delegation from the Defence Headquarters visited Katsina on Sunday to console the state government over the death of retired Major General Rabe Abubakar, who died in captivity after being abducted on 30 May 2026.

The visit took place at Government House, Katsina, where the delegation met Deputy Governor Faruk Lawal Jobe, who represented Governor Dikko Umaru Radda.

The late officer was seized with his wife along the Katsina–Matazu road. He reportedly died from diabetes and hypertension complications while held by suspected bandits.

The Defence Headquarters said efforts were ongoing to identify and prosecute those responsible.

Condolence Visit Led By Senior Defence Officials

The delegation was led by Major General I.M. Abdullahi, Chief Administration Officer of the Defence Headquarters. He was joined by senior officers including Major General W.B. Idris and Rear Admiral A.H. Haruna.

Others present were Major General B.P. Koughna, Brigadier General I.M. Ibrahim, Brigadier General S.K. Usman (Rtd), A.U.M. S.I. Kaita (Rtd), Major General M.S. Bindawa (Rtd), and A.U.M. A.Y. Abdullahi.

Major General Abdullahi said they came to convey the condolences of the Armed Forces of Nigeria.

He described the late officer as a distinguished professional whose service would be remembered.

“We share in the grief of the people of Katsina and the family of the deceased,” he said.

He added that security agencies were working together to ensure the killers were brought to justice.

State Government Reaffirms Commitment To Security

Deputy Governor Jobe thanked the military for the visit. He said it showed solidarity during a painful moment for the state.

He restated the government’s commitment to supporting security agencies in tackling banditry and other crimes.

He said the administration would continue working to ensure those behind the killing faced the full weight of the law.

A one‑minute silence was held in honour of the late officer.

Operation Clean Sweep III Launched In Katsina

Following the incident, the Joint Task Force North West under Operation Fansan Yamma launched Operation Clean Sweep III on 14 June 2026.

The operation targets terrorists and bandits in Matazu and nearby communities.

Lieutenant Colonel Aliyu Danja, Media Information Officer of the JTF, said troops were conducting raids, patrols, and clearance missions.

He said several hideouts and logistics bases were destroyed around Dikkawa Hills and nearby villages.

“Clearance missions conducted in Adua, Nasarawa, and Karaduwa led to the discovery and destruction of several terrorist hideouts,” the statement said.

The Theatre Command assured residents of continued protection.

National Reactions: Atiku, CAN, HURIWA, And Clerics Speak

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar condemned the death of the retired officer. He said it exposed the severity of insecurity nationwide.

“It is with profound sadness and deep anger that we mourn the death of retired Major General Abubakar Rabe,” he said.

He linked the tragedy to renewed attacks in Chibok, where terrorists burned schools on the same day.

CAN observed Black Sunday nationwide on 14 June 2026. Archbishop Daniel Okoh said the country was mourning countless victims of violence.

“Our nation is bleeding, and the Church cannot remain silent,” he said.

Muslim clerics also supported national prayers, saying spiritual intervention must complement security operations.

HURIWA called for the death penalty for terrorism offences, saying the killing of the retired officer showed the growing audacity of criminal groups.

Prophet Isa El‑Buba urged President Tinubu to prioritise security above politics.

He said, “What Nigeria needs most now is security. Before politics, before elections and before personal interests.”