By BONIFACE AKARAH

The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) on Friday said it deployed every available operational resource in a desperate effort to secure the release of retired Major General Rabe Abubakar and his wife following their abduction, but the former military spokesman eventually died in captivity.

In a statement issued by the Director of Defence Information, Major General Samaila Uba, the military announced the death of the retired senior officer and expressed condolences to his family, colleagues and Nigerians, while reaffirming its determination to eradicate terrorism and violent criminality across the country.

"The Defence Headquarters regrets to announce the passing of Major General Rabe Abubakar (Retired), who tragically lost his life in captivity following his abduction," the statement said.

The Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) described the late General Abubakar as a distinguished officer who served the nation with dedication in several capacities, including as spokesperson for various military formations and Director of Defence Information.

"Maj Gen Abubakar served the nation with distinction and held many appointments including spokesperson of various military formations as well as spokesman for the AFN as Director Defence Information. He made immense contributions to counter-insurgency operations, professional development of the AFN and numerous other commendable and outstanding impacts," DHQ stated.

According to the military, the decision not to make public comments during the period of the abduction was informed by ongoing rescue operations being undertaken in collaboration with other security agencies.

"The Defence Headquarters withheld public comment on his abduction in deference to ongoing rescue efforts by the AFN and sister security agencies. Every operational resource was deployed in the hope of securing his safe return," the statement added.

The military said the tragic development has further strengthened its resolve to intensify the fight against terrorists, kidnappers and other criminal elements threatening national security.

"This sad loss further strengthens the resolve of the AFN. We will remain resolute in the discharge of our constitutional mandate to defend the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Nigeria and to protect all citizens," it said.

DHQ disclosed that ongoing military operations had already been escalated in response to a series of kidnappings across the country, including that involving the late retired General.

"In response to a series of unfortunate abductions across Nigeria including that of Maj Gen Abubakar, ongoing operations have since been further intensified to bring perpetrators to justice and to dismantle all terrorist networks threatening our nation," the statement noted.

The military further assured Nigerians that it would not relent in its efforts to restore peace and security nationwide.

"We assure Nigerians that the Armed Forces will not relent until peace and security are restored and those responsible for terrorist activities across the nation are held to account," the Defence Headquarters stated.

Major General Rabe Abubakar, who retired after a distinguished military career, was widely respected for his contributions to strategic communications, counter-insurgency efforts and the professional development of the Armed Forces of Nigeria.