By ZAKAA LAZARUS
The Defence Correspondents Association of Nigeria (DECAN) has received with profound sadness the news of the death of former Director of Defence Information (DDI), Major General Abubakar Rabe (Retd.), who reportedly died while in the captivity of bandits.
The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) announced his death in a statement issued on Saturday, June 13, 2026, by the Director of Defence Information, Major General Samaila Uba.
According to a statement issued by DECAN association Secretary, Musa Umar Bologi, Major General Rabe and his wife were abducted on May 30, 2026. While efforts were ongoing to secure their release, the tragic news of his death emerged, throwing the nation, the Armed Forces of Nigeria, and the media community into mourning.
DECAN remembers him as a disciplined officer, a gentleman, and a bridge-builder who made significant contributions to strengthening civil-military relations through constructive engagement with the media.
The statement said members of DECAN extends heartfelt condolences to his family, the Chief of Defence Staff, the Armed Forces of Nigeria, and all those affected by this painful loss.
“We pray that Almighty God grants his soul eternal rest and gives his family, friends, and associates the strength to bear this irreparable loss.









