Kidnappers Release Video of Retired Major General Rabe Abubakar, Demand Livestock and Release of Detained Members

Kidnapped bandits have released a four-minute video showing retired Major General Rabe Abubakar in captivity, with his wife later appearing in a separate clip appealing to the Katsina State Government and local authorities to meet the captors’ demands — which include livestock and the release of three detained gang members.

The video, confirmed by Punch and widely shared across Nigerian social media platforms on June 6, 2026, marks a significant escalation in the high-profile kidnapping case that has drawn national attention since Rabe’s abduction in late May.

Speaking directly to the camera in the wife’s clip, she urged the state government and traditional rulers in five local government areas to act swiftly to secure her husband’s release, citing the specific demands communicated by the kidnappers.

Captors’ Identity Confirmed

Security sources have linked the kidnapping to the notorious Kachallah Muhammad, a well-known bandit figure active across the northwestern region. According to reports, three members of his group — Sani, Aminu, and Nasiru — were previously arrested in connection with related incidents, with two detained in Jikamshi and one in Kano.

The video release came as negotiations continued between intermediaries and the criminal group. Security analysts say the footage appears designed to apply pressure on authorities while demonstrating the captors’ control over their hostage.

Family Plea and Official Response

The retired general, who served as Nigeria’s Director of Defence Information before his retirement, has become a focal point for the state’s security response. His wife’s public appeal has added an emotional dimension to the ongoing crisis.

Authorities have not publicly commented on the video or the status of negotiations, but the development is expected to intensify pressure on security agencies to resolve the case quickly.

Watch: Punch reports on the release of captivity video of retired Major General Rabe Abubakar — via Twitter/X

Sources: Punch, Legit.ng, Daily Trust