In brief
The Nigerian Armed Forces announced the rescue of Amina Abubakar, widow of retired Major General Rabe Abubakar, who was abducted in Katsina last month and whose husband died in captivity. Military troops secured the wife’s release after a gun battle that left her wounded but alive. President Bola Tinubu condemned the death and highlighted the threat posed by armed criminal groups. Statements from defence officials confirmed the operation was part of intensified search‑and‑rescue missions in the region. The story underscores the ongoing insecurity in Nigeria’s north west involving both bandit and jihadist attacks.
The Nigerian Armed Forces announced the rescue of Amina Abubakar, widow of former Major General Rabe Abubakar, who was abducted in Katsina on 10 May. The general died on 15 May while in captivity, reportedly due to health complications. The military said a rescue operation was carried out on the same day of the death, securing Amina’s release.
During the operation, the wife was shot and is now receiving treatment in a military hospital. Ainka’s daughter Bilkisu confirmed the rescue on WhatsApp, expressing gratitude for the army’s intervention.
Deputy Director of Death and Recovery Affairs Samaila Uba described the operation as the result of “intensified search‑and‑rescue efforts” after sustained offensive moves that pressured the criminal group. He added that the armed forces would continue operations to track down the kidnappers.
President Bola Tinubu expressed shock at the loss of the general and stated that the incident showcases the threat posed by armed criminal groups in the region.
The kidnapping of the couple has been linked to local bandit gangs known for ransom and cattle rustling. While no group has claimed responsibility, the area remains volatile with sporadic militant activity. The rescue operation highlights the ongoing security challenges that the Nigerian military is confronting in the north west states.
