Gen. Rabe’s death shows Nigeria losing ground against insecurity – Atiku

By Taiwo Scholarstica

Former Vice President and Presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Atiku Abubakar, has said the death of retired Major General Abubakar Rabe in the custody of bandits and a recent terrorist attack in Chibok, Borno State, show that Nigeria is losing progress made in the fight against insecurity.

In a statement issued on Sunday, Atiku described the death of the former Director of Defence Information as a sad sign of the government’s failure to adequately protect citizens.

Rabe was kidnapped along with his wife in Katsina State on May 30, 2026. Reports said he died in captivity after suffering health complications linked to diabetes and hypertension, while his wife remains in the custody of the kidnappers.

Reacting to the incident, Atiku said it was painful that a retired military officer who dedicated his life to defending the country could die at the hands of criminals.

According to him, the development highlights the growing insecurity in the country and shows that even senior military officers are not safe from bandits and terrorists.

The former vice president also expressed concern over a recent attack on Kautikari community in Chibok Local Government Area of Borno State, where terrorists reportedly burned primary and secondary school buildings.

He said the attack brought back memories of the 2014 Chibok schoolgirls’ abduction and showed that terrorists are still able to target schools and communities.

Atiku noted that the death of Gen. Rabe and the Chibok attack happened on the same day, describing it as a troubling reminder of Nigeria’s security challenges.

He also raised concerns about schoolchildren and teachers abducted in recent weeks, saying about 90 victims kidnapped in Oyo and Borno states since May 15 are still being held.

According to him, the continued attacks on schools and communities show that the country’s security situation is worsening.

Atiku renewed his call for a state of emergency on security, urging the Federal Government to take stronger and more urgent action against banditry and terrorism.

He said Nigerians deserve effective measures that will improve security and protect lives and property.

The ADC presidential candidate extended his condolences to the family of the late general and prayed for the safe release of his wife and other Nigerians still being held by kidnappers and terrorist groups.

He added that Gen. Rabe’s death should serve as a wake-up call for the country to take decisive steps to address insecurity.