A former Nigerian military general, Rabe Abubakar, has reportedly died while being held captive by so-called bandits in the northwestern part of the country, according to local media and government sources. Abubakar, a former defense spokesman, was kidnapped along with his wife in Katsina state about two weeks ago.

A government statement from the Ministry for Internal Security and Home Affairs said Abubakar died from complications related to diabetes and hypertension. The statement noted that despite relentless efforts to secure his safe release, the situation ended in tragedy.

The AFP news agency cited a security source indicating that Abubakar and his wife were ambushed while traveling to a wedding. Nigerian daily Punch reported last week that the kidnappers demanded the release of three detained fighters and the return of livestock allegedly seized during security operations in exchange for the couple's freedom.

Katsina is one of several states in northwestern and central Nigeria where criminal gangs operate. These bandits routinely raid villages, kidnap residents for ransom, and burn homes after looting them. Islamist extremist groups also plague remote parts of the country.

In the latest attack, gunmen killed at least 17 farmers and wounded 13 others while they worked in their fields in Zamfara state on Friday. In August last year, dozens were killed in Katsina state when gunmen stormed a mosque. Stock theft, kidnappings, and extortion are frequently used to fund armed groups, and law enforcement remains a challenge for Nigerian authorities.

Source: www.dw.com