Widow of late Nigerian general rescued following military operation

Nigerian troops have rescued the wife of a retired army general who died while being held captive by kidnappers, the military announced on June 15th, as reported by BBC Africa on June 16th.

Amina Abubakar, wife of retired Maj Gen Rabe Abubakar, was recovered during a military operation in north-western Katsina State after weeks in captivity. According to the military, she was shot by her captors as troops advanced on their location, but was successfully rescued and is now receiving treatment at a military hospital.

The operation followed intensified search-and-rescue efforts after the couple was abducted at the end of May. Military spokesperson Maj Gen Samaila Uba said troops made contact with the armed group during sustained operations, leading to Mrs Abubakar’s recovery.

“The armed forces remain committed to ensuring her full recovery and providing all necessary support to her family,” Uba said, adding that security forces would continue pursuing those responsible for the kidnapping.

The couple’s daughter, Bilkisu Abubakar, confirmed her mother’s rescue in a WhatsApp message, thanking God for her safe return and expressing hope for her complete recovery after the ordeal.

The rescue comes only days after the death of Maj Gen Abubakar in captivity. Officials in Katsina State announced on June 13th that the retired officer had died while being held by his abductors. Authorities said his death was linked to existing health conditions, including diabetes and high blood pressure.

Before his death, a video circulated online on June 6th showing the retired general and his wife appealing to state authorities to negotiate for their release. In the footage, they reportedly called for detained bandits and seized livestock to be released in exchange for their freedom.

No group has claimed responsibility for the kidnapping. However, criminal gangs known locally as “bandits” regularly carry out abductions for ransom across north-west Nigeria, alongside cattle rustling and attacks on rural communities.

Reacting to the general’s death, President Bola Tinubu said he was shocked by the news and described the incident as a stark reminder of the continuing threat posed by armed criminal groups operating across parts of the country.

BBC Africa, Maghrebi.org