Former Major General of the Nigerian Army, Rabe Abubakar, has died while in the custody of kidnappers in Katsina State, sparking strong criticism from retired military officers who accuse the government of failing to contain the country’s worsening insecurity.

The retired officer was abducted on May 30 alongside his wife by armed men. The kidnappers later demanded the release of detained fighters and the return of seized livestock as conditions for their freedom. The demands were made in a video in which the couple appealed for government compliance.

Authorities in Katsina State later confirmed his death, saying he died while in captivity and linking the cause to complications from diabetes and hypertension.

The development has drawn anger from ex-military officers, who described it as a painful reflection of Nigeria’s security situation. Retired Brigadier-General Bashir Adewinbi said the incident sends a worrying message about the state of security in the country and warned that citizens may increasingly feel forced to defend themselves.

Another retired officer, Brigadier-General John Sura, said the tragedy shows that insecurity affects everyone regardless of status, adding that it raises doubts about the government’s ability to protect both serving and retired personnel.

President Bola Tinubu expressed sadness over the incident, describing it as a reminder of the nation’s security challenges. He restated his administration’s resolve to intensify the fight against terrorism and kidnapping, warning criminal groups to surrender or face military action.

The Defence Headquarters also described the death as tragic and said it had stepped up operations nationwide to track down the perpetrators. Military authorities said efforts to secure the retired general’s release were ongoing before his death was confirmed.

Former Senate President David Mark called the incident a national tragedy, saying it reflects the deepening insecurity in the country and raises urgent concerns about public safety.

Security operations are ongoing in Katsina State and other parts of the country as authorities continue efforts to dismantle kidnapping and terrorist networks.