KATSINA – Nigerian Troops have rescued the widow of late Major General Rabe Abubakar from a terrorists’ hideout, bringing a harrowing ordeal to a close weeks after the retired senior officer died in captivity.
Hajiya Amina Abubakar was freed by soldiers from the Nigerian Army’s 17 Brigade, operating under the Joint Task Force North West Operation FANSAN YANMA.
She and her husband were originally snatched on May 30 while travelling along the Marabar Musawa–Kafinsoli Road in Matazu Local Government Area.
The abduction sent shockwaves through the nation’s security establishment. Major General Abubakar, a former Director of Defence Information, was a widely respected figure whose career had been defined by service to the armed forces.
Tragically, while both victims were held in a terrorists’ camp, the General died under circumstances that authorities have yet to fully disclose.
His remains were later released by his captors, allowing his family and the military community to begin mourning. How the corpse was brought to the limelight for burial is still a mystery.
But his wife remained in the hands of the gunmen, sparking mounting fears for her safety.
Military sources say intelligence-driven operations were intensified across terrorists enclaves in the North-West following persistent reports of her continued captivity.
The sustained pressure eventually culminated in a successful rescue mission carried out by personnel of the 17 Brigade.
While operational details remain under wraps, security sources have confirmed that Hajiya Amina has been reunited with relevant authorities.
She is expected to receive medical care and psychological support following her traumatic weeks in captivity.
The incident casts a stark light on the persistent security crisis plaguing parts of northern Nigeria, where armed groups continue to target travellers, residents and high-profile individuals for kidnapping and ransom.
Authorities have reiterated their commitment to sustaining military operations aimed at dismantling criminal networks and securing major roads across the region.
Major General Rabe Abubakar’s death in captivity has drawn widespread condemnation and renewed urgent calls for tougher measures against banditry in the North-West.
His wife’s rescue, however, has been hailed as a significant breakthrough in ongoing counter-kidnapping efforts.
