The family of late retired Major General Rabe Abubakar has pushed back against claims that he died from diabetes-related complications while in bandits’ captivity, raising fresh questions over the circumstances surrounding his death.
His son, Isyaka Rabe, spoke in an interview with Deutsche Welle Hausa on Sunday, dismissing reports linked to underlying medical conditions.
Authorities in Katsina State had earlier suggested that the retired military officer suffered from diabetes and high blood pressure prior to his death while in captivity.
But Isyaka insisted the family does not accept that explanation.
“Our father was not diabetic and did not suffer from hypertension. People have different opinions about what happened,” he said.
“We believe it was most likely due to a snakebite, while others think he might have stepped on something. From the video, you could see his leg was swollen, but only God knows the true cause of his death.”
He added that speculation followed the circulation of a video allegedly released by his abductors, with some suggesting a snakebite as a possible cause. However, he stressed that the exact circumstances remain unclear.
Describing the late officer as a devout and humble man, Isyaka said he lived a modest life and died a hero.
He also said the family was not informed about how the remains were recovered.
“When I announced the funeral prayer, many people asked how the body was recovered. I told them I didn’t know and that such questions should be directed to the government,” he said.
Isyaka further dismissed social media claims that his mother, who was abducted alongside his father, had been released.
“Anyone saying my mother has been released is not telling the truth. As I speak, she is still in their custody.”
The retired general and his wife were abducted in May while travelling through Katsina. His death was later confirmed by the Defence Headquarters.
He was buried in Katsina on Sunday, amid renewed calls for stronger security action and efforts to secure the release of his wife, who remains in captivity.
