In Nigeria, a former military general has reportedly died while being held captive, according to local media outlets, quoting the country's military and state government.
Abubakar was kidnapped along with his wife in Katsina state around two weeks ago by gunmen from a suspected kidnapping-for-ransom gang, known locally as "bandits."
What government has said
The former defense spokesman died from complications relating diabetes and hypertension, according to a government statement issued by the Ministry for Internal Security and Home Affairs.
The statement said that "despite the relentless and concerted efforts ...to secure his safe release, the situation ended in this tragedy."
