DHQ Mourns Ex-Army Spokesman Rabe Abubakar, Vows Relentless Offensive Against Terrorists

By Chimezie Godfrey

The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has expressed deep sorrow over the death of retired Major General Rabe Abubakar, who died in captivity after being abducted by criminals.

In a statement issued on Saturday, the Director of Defence Information, Major General Samaila Uba, described the late senior officer as a distinguished military professional whose contributions to national security and the development of the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) remain invaluable.

According to Uba, the Armed Forces extends its deepest condolences to the family of the deceased, his colleagues, and Nigerians at large.

“The Armed Forces of Nigeria convey its deepest sympathies to the Abubakar family, his colleagues and all Nigerians. Maj Gen Abubakar served the nation with distinction and held many appointments including spokesperson of various military formations as well as spokesman for the AFN as Director Defence Information.

“He made immense contributions to counter-insurgency operations, professional development of the AFN and numerous other commendable and outstanding impacts. His commitment to duty and to the unity of Nigeria remains a shining example for all personnel of the AFN,” the statement said.

The Defence Headquarters disclosed that it deliberately refrained from making public comments on the retired general’s abduction in order not to jeopardize ongoing efforts aimed at securing his release.

“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,” Uba stated.

Describing the development as a painful loss, the military said the incident has further strengthened its determination to eliminate terrorism, banditry and other violent crimes threatening the nation’s peace and security.

“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 added.

The Defence Headquarters noted that ongoing military operations across the country have been intensified in response to the growing incidents of abduction and terrorism, including the kidnapping of the late retired general.

“In response to series of unfortunate abductions across Nigeria including that of Maj Gen Abubakar, ongoing operations have since been further intensified to bring perpetrators to justice and to dismantle all terrorist networks threatening our nation.

“We assure Nigerians that the Armed Forces will not relent until peace and security are restored and those responsible for terrorist activities across the nation are held to account,” Uba said.

The military reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding the nation and ensuring that those responsible for acts of terrorism and criminality face justice.

What do you think about this?
Drop your opinion in the comment section.
FOLLOW US & Share this with someone who needs to see this.