(SINL NIGERIA) The National Human Rights Commission has condemned the abduction and subsequent death of Retired Major General Rabe Abubakar while in bandits’ captivity, describing it as a grave violation of the right to life and personal security that demands urgent and systemic responses.
The Executive Secretary of the Commission, Chief Tony Ojukwu SAN, in a statement on Tuesday signed by Fatimah Agwai Mohammed, Director Corporate Affairs and External Linkages
said the incident represents a disturbing escalation of insecurity in the country and a direct assault on the dignity and sanctity of human life.
He stated that the Commission received with deep sorrow the news of the General’s death, which occurred while he was held captive, despite reported efforts by the Katsina State Government and security agencies to secure his release.
Chief Ojukwu noted that every person, regardless of status or background, is entitled to the protection of the right to life, liberty, and security of person under the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and international human rights instruments to which Nigeria is a party.
He stressed that the abduction and death of a retired senior military officer underscores the extent to which insecurity has penetrated all levels of society, leaving citizens, including highly placed individuals, vulnerable to criminal violence.
The Executive Secretary expressed concern that schools, homes, and communities are no longer safe, and that the persistent threat of banditry and kidnapping continues to erode public confidence in the state’s duty to protect.
He stated that the Commission views the killing as not only a loss to the bereaved family and Katsina State, but a national tragedy that reflects the urgent need for a coordinated and rights-based response to insecurity.
In light of the recurring nature of such attacks, NHRC Boss said the Commission believes that the conversation around the establishment of state police deserves serious and immediate consideration as part of a broader strategy to address insecurity.
He explained that decentralizing policing could bring security closer to communities, improve response time, and enhance local intelligence gathering, provided that such structures are created with strong legal frameworks, civilian oversight, and adherence to human rights standards to prevent abuse and ensure accountability.
The Learned Silk called on the Federal Government and security agencies to ensure that a thorough, independent, and transparent investigation is carried out to identify and bring to justice all those responsible for the heinous act.
He emphasized that accountability is essential to upholding the rule of law and to deter further violations, and urged authorities to strengthen measures for the protection of civilians while exploring structural reforms that can improve security outcomes nationwide.
The Commission extended its condolences to the family of the late General, the Government of Katsina State, and the Nigerian people. Dr. Ojukwu affirmed that the NHRC remains committed to monitoring the situation and to advocating for policies and actions that safeguard the right to life and security for all Nigerians.
