Odimmegwa Johnpeter/Abuja
The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has strongly condemned the abduction and killing of retired Major General Rabe Abubakar while in bandits’ captivity, describing the incident as a grave violation of the fundamental rights to life and personal security.
In a statement issued by the Commission’s Executive Secretary, Chief Tony Ojukwu, the NHRC expressed deep sorrow over the death of the retired military officer despite reported efforts by the Katsina State Government and security agencies to secure his release.
Ojukwu described the tragic incident as a disturbing reflection of Nigeria’s worsening security situation, noting that it demonstrates how criminal violence has permeated all levels of society.
According to him, every Nigerian is entitled to protection under the Constitution and international human rights instruments, stressing that the killing of a retired senior military officer highlights the vulnerability of citizens regardless of their status or background.
The NHRC boss lamented that homes, schools, and communities across the country are increasingly becoming unsafe due to persistent banditry and kidnapping, which continue to undermine public confidence in the government’s ability to guarantee security.
He described the death of the retired General as not only a personal loss to his family and Katsina State but also a national tragedy that underscores the urgent need for comprehensive and rights-based security reforms.
As part of measures to tackle the growing insecurity, Ojukwu advocated for serious and immediate consideration of state policing. He argued that decentralised policing could enhance local intelligence gathering, improve response times, and bring security operations closer to communities.
He, however, stressed that any state police structure must operate within strong legal frameworks, with effective civilian oversight and strict adherence to human rights standards to prevent abuse and ensure accountability.
The NHRC further called on the Federal Government and security agencies to conduct a thorough, transparent, and independent investigation into the circumstances surrounding the abduction and death of the retired General, with a view to bringing the perpetrators to justice.
Ojukwu maintained that accountability remains essential for upholding the rule of law and deterring future violations, while urging authorities to strengthen civilian protection measures and pursue structural reforms capable of improving security outcomes nationwide.
The Commission extended its condolences to the family of the late Major General Rabe Abubakar, the Katsina State Government, and Nigerians at large, reaffirming its commitment to advocating policies and actions that protect the rights to life and security of all citizens.
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