Governor Radda confirms security agencies’ failed rescue efforts as state mourns loss of former Defence Information Director

Retired Major General Rabe Abubakar, former Director of Defence Information, has died while being held captive by armed men in Matazu Local Government Area of Katsina State. The incident occurred after the senior officer was abducted with his wife, Hajiya Amina Abubakar, near Zakin Baure village along the Marabar Musawa-Kafinsoli road. His death was confirmed on Thursday by Katsina State Governor Dikko Umaru Radda and the State Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Dr. Nasiru Muazu.

According to official accounts, Abubakar and his wife were kidnapped several weeks ago while travelling with their driver, Abdullahi Sa’idu. The driver managed to escape despite sustaining a gunshot wound. Security agencies and the state government launched extensive efforts to secure their release, but these proved unsuccessful. The retired general reportedly died in captivity from complications related to diabetes and hypertension.

The abduction and subsequent death of General Abubakar has further highlighted persistent security challenges in Katsina State and across the North-West region. Matazu LGA, where the incident took place, has witnessed repeated attacks by armed groups targeting commuters and residents in recent years. The government described the situation as a national tragedy and a dark moment for both the state and Nigeria at large.

In a statement, Governor Dikko Umaru Radda expressed deep sorrow over the development, extending condolences to the late officer’s family and the wider Nigerian military community. “It is with profound sadness that we confirm the General’s death while in bandits’ captivity. Despite relentless and concerted efforts by the State Government and various security agencies to secure his safe release, this tragedy could not be prevented,” Dr. Nasiru Muazu said on behalf of the state government.

The family of the deceased confirmed that their vehicle—a red Peugeot 504 assigned to Major General Abubakar—was recovered by police at Matazu Divisional Headquarters after the incident. As at press time, security agencies have intensified patrols in affected areas while reiterating calls for greater collaboration among stakeholders to tackle insecurity in Katsina State.

The opposition could not be immediately reached for comment on Thursday evening.

Source: https://www.pulse.ng/story/abducted-army-general-abubakar-rabe-dies-in-captivity-after-weeks-of-being-held-by-bandits-2026061317225131709

Party officials decline comment amid mounting speculation over Atiku Abubakar’s vice-presidential pick ahead of 2027 elections

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has declined to confirm widespread reports regarding the selection of a running mate for former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, who is expected to contest in the upcoming 2027 presidential election. Party officials, when contacted on Saturday in Abuja, refused to provide details or comment on the matter, despite growing public interest.

Rumours have circulated in recent days across political circles that Atiku, a prominent figure from Adamawa State and former Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) presidential candidate, may have reached an agreement with the ADC concerning his running mate. The uncertainty has fuelled speculation about new political alliances and potential defections ahead of the next general elections.

The choice of a running mate is considered a critical factor in Nigeria’s presidential race, as it can influence regional support and party strategy. Atiku’s previous selections for vice-presidential candidate have drawn attention due to their impact on voting patterns in key geopolitical zones. With the next poll less than a year away, Nigerians are closely watching for any indication of new alignments among major political parties.

Despite repeated enquiries from journalists, ADC leaders maintained their silence and did not issue any official statement on the reported selection. Efforts to reach Atiku’s media aides also yielded no response as at press time. Without confirmation from either party or candidate, uncertainty remains over whether an agreement has indeed been finalised.

As the 2027 election season gathers momentum, further announcements from both Atiku Abubakar and ADC are expected to shape the evolving political landscape. Stakeholders say clarity on his choice of running mate could influence other parties’ strategies and realignments across Nigeria.

Source: https://www.premiumtimesng.com/news/top-news/887419-adc-declines-to-confirm-reports-of-atiku-running-mate-pick.html

Electoral commission reverses earlier exclusion, clearing LP to contest Enugu East poll after legal review

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has reinstated the Labour Party (LP) as a recognised contestant for the upcoming Enugu East senatorial by-election. The decision was announced in Enugu on Saturday, 13 June 2026, following a period of uncertainty over the party’s eligibility.

INEC’s move comes after weeks of legal consultations and pressure from LP stakeholders, who had protested the party’s initial omission from the list of approved candidates. The electoral commission stated that its latest review confirmed that Labour Party met all necessary requirements to participate in the scheduled by-election.

The development holds significant weight for Enugu East Senatorial District, where political competition between major parties—including the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), All Progressives Congress (APC), and Labour Party—remains intense. Observers note that Labour Party’s restoration could alter voter dynamics and increase turnout, given the party’s recent gains in South-East Nigeria.

In a statement, INEC said: “After due consideration of court orders and compliance documents submitted by Labour Party, we have updated our register to include LP among qualified parties for the by-election.” However, opposition figures from PDP and APC have raised concerns about the timing of INEC’s reversal. A PDP spokesperson said their party will closely monitor all developments to ensure transparency throughout the electoral process.

With this decision, campaigning is expected to intensify in Enugu East as all recognised parties mobilise supporters ahead of election day. Political analysts believe INEC’s resolution may set a precedent for future cases involving party eligibility disputes during Nigeria’s electoral cycle.

Source: https://www.premiumtimesng.com/news/top-news/887424-inec-finally-restores-labour-party-in-enugu-senatorial-by-election.html