Bandits Demand Prisoner Swap for Abducted Ex-DHQ Spokesman and Wife

Bandits holding retired Major General Ibrahim Rabe, a former Defence Headquarters spokesman, and his wife have reportedly demanded the release of detained associates as part of the conditions for letting the couple go.

Rabe and his wife were abducted in Katsina State, and the case has drawn fresh concern because the kidnappers are now pushing beyond a standard ransom demand.

Conditions Extend Beyond Cash

Reports monitored by Leadership and The Guardian said the abductors want three detained gang members released. They also asked for seized livestock to be returned, a demand that points to the growing use of prisoner-swap tactics by armed groups in the north-west.

In a video circulated after the abduction, Rabe’s wife appealed for help as the kidnappers repeated their demands.

Pressure Mounts on Security Agencies

The case has revived questions about road security and the reach of bandit groups in Katsina, especially on routes where abductions have persisted despite repeated clearance operations.

Officials had not publicly accepted the kidnappers’ terms, but the reports said rescue efforts were still under way.

Sources: Leadership, The Guardian