The Katsina State Government says coordinated efforts to secure the release of retired Major General Rabe Abubakar and his wife have reached an advanced stage, with “high optimism” that the couple will regain freedom soon.
The government said Governor Dikko Umaru Radda, PhD, CON, immediately directed all relevant security agencies to prioritize the safe return of the former Director of Defence Information and his wife after their abduction along the Matazu axis.
A press release on Saturday by the Commissioner for Information and Culture, Bala Salisu Zango, said preliminary investigations revealed the kidnapping was deliberate and targeted.
“Evidence gathered so far suggests the retired general and his spouse were monitored and trailed right from Kaduna, their point of departure.
“The precision of the abduction indicates the involvement of organized criminal groups,” the government noted, adding that this insight is now guiding security forces for a focused and effective rescue mission.
The state government described attacks on high-profile citizens and retired servicemen as “an affront to the state” and reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring those behind the plot are brought to justice.
“We are dealing with a targeted operation, which changes the dynamics of our response,” the statement quoted officials. “The state is working around the clock, utilizing 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 situation.”
Katsina State Government said it has intensified collaboration with the Nigerian Army, Police, and other intelligence networks. Security forces have maintained sustained presence and surveillance in the area where the incident occurred, while the state explores all necessary channels for a swift and safe release.
The government appealed to the public for information on any suspicious movements or activities that preceded the abduction, stressing that such details are crucial to dismantling the network responsible.
“We are confident that the ongoing high-level operations will yield a positive result very shortly,” the release stated. The administration urged the family of Maj. Gen. Abubakar and the public to remain calm, assuring that every resource is being deployed to bring the retired General, his wife, and all other captives home safely.
Further updates will be provided as the situation progresses, the Commissioner said.