The Katsina State Government says there is growing optimism over the imminent release of the former Director of Defence Information, Major General Rabe Abubakar (Rtd), and his wife, following intensified security operations and ongoing multi-dimensional efforts to secure their freedom.
The state government disclosed that coordinated efforts by security agencies have reached an advanced stage, expressing confidence that the retired military officer and his wife, who were abducted along the Matazu axis, would soon regain their freedom.
According to the government, Governor Dikko Umaru Radda immediately directed all relevant security agencies to prioritise the safe rescue of the couple and other victims held by bandits after receiving reports of the incident.
Preliminary investigations indicate that the abduction was a deliberate and targeted operation. Security findings suggest that Major General Abubakar and his wife were allegedly monitored and trailed from Kaduna, their point of departure, before being kidnapped.
The government noted that the nature of the operation points to the involvement of an organised criminal network, a development that is shaping ongoing rescue efforts and intelligence-led operations.
A statement issued by the Commissioner for Information and Culture, Bala Salisu Zango, described the abduction as an attack not only on the retired General and his family but also on citizens who have dedicated their lives to national service.
The state government reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring that those behind the crime are apprehended and prosecuted.
“We are dealing with a targeted operation, which changes the dynamics of our response. The state is working around the clock, utilising both technology and ground intelligence to close in on the abductors. Our primary goal remains the safe return of the General, his wife and others in similar situations,” the statement said.
The government appealed to members of the public to provide any useful information on suspicious movements or activities linked to the incident, stressing that such intelligence could assist security agencies in dismantling the criminal network responsible.
It also disclosed that collaboration between the Nigerian Army, the Police and other intelligence agencies has been strengthened to ensure a breakthrough without compromising the safety of the victims.
Security personnel have maintained surveillance and operational presence in the affected area, while authorities continue to explore all available channels to facilitate the safe release of the captives.
The Katsina State Government reiterated its resolve to combat banditry and other forms of criminality, assuring residents that every available resource is being deployed to secure the release of Major General Abubakar, his wife and other abducted persons.
The government urged the family of the retired General and the public to remain calm, expressing confidence that ongoing high-level operations would soon produce positive results.
Further updates, it said, would be provided as developments unfold.
