A non-governmental and non-profit organisation, Prayer and Support for the Nigerian Armed Forces and Other Security Agencies (PSNAFSA), has expressed deep sorrow over the death of retired Major General Abubakar Rabe while in the custody of his abductors.
The group’s Convener, Ambassador Mary Abayomi Fatile, condemned terrorism and banditry in all forms and questioned the Federal Government’s policy of granting amnesty to repentant bandits and terrorists.
In a statement made available to militarynewsng.com, Fatile also raised concerns about the circumstances surrounding the recovery of the late military officer’s remains and the response of the Katsina State Government following his death.
She questioned how the state government was informed of the retired general’s death and how his remains were received from his captors.
“How was the news of his death broken to the state government? How was his body received from the bandits?” she asked.
“This was a man who was crying for help while in the hands of enemies of the state without any rescue in sight. Now they killed him and the state government received his remains and was quick to claim that he died of complications arising from diabetes and hypertension.”
Fatile further questioned what efforts were made to secure the release of the retired officer if authorities were aware of his health condition.
“If they knew he had diabetes and hypertension, what efforts did the state government put in place for his release? There are many questions begging for answers,” she stated.
The organisation described the death of the former Director of Defence Information as painful and disturbing, noting that he had devoted a significant part of his life to defending Nigeria and protecting its citizens.
According to PSNAFSA, Major General Rabe’s death represents a major loss not only to his family but also to Katsina State, the Nigerian Armed Forces and the nation at large.
The group said the incident should serve as a wake-up call for relevant authorities to intensify efforts against banditry, kidnapping and terrorism across the country.
“We call on the Federal Government, security agencies and other stakeholders to ensure that those responsible for his abduction and death, as well as their sponsors, are identified, apprehended and brought to justice,” the statement said.
PSNAFSA also reiterated its opposition to the continued granting of amnesty to former terrorists without adequate accountability, expressing concern over recent efforts to reintegrate repentant Boko Haram members into communities affected by insurgency.
While acknowledging the role of rehabilitation programmes, the organisation maintained that justice, accountability and the security of innocent Nigerians must remain paramount.
“The sacrifices of members of the Armed Forces and other security agencies who have paid the ultimate price in the defence of the nation must never be undermined,” the group stated.
PSNAFSA extended its condolences to the family of the late Major General Rabe, the government and people of Katsina State, and the Nigerian Armed Forces.
The organisation prayed for the peaceful repose of the late officer’s soul and for strength and comfort for his family during this difficult period.
