President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has expressed deep sadness over the death of retired Major General Rabe Abubakar, who died while being held captive by terrorists in Katsina State.
In a statement issued by the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu said he was shocked by the former military officer’s death and extended his condolences to the bereaved family.
Abubakar, a former senior military officer who retired after a distinguished career in the Nigerian Armed Forces, was reportedly travelling to his hometown when he was abducted by armed criminals. His death in captivity was confirmed on Saturday, while his wife remains in the custody of the kidnappers.
The President sympathised with the family of the deceased, particularly his wife, who is still being held against her will by the captors. He also conveyed his condolences to the Katsina State Government and the Nigerian Armed Forces.
Tinubu reiterated his administration’s resolve not to negotiate with terrorists or accede to demands for the release of detained criminal elements in exchange for hostages.
“While the terrorists have done their worst, they should know that the government will never bow to their demand to release their members held by our security agencies,” the President said.
Reaffirming remarks he made during the June 12 Democracy Day celebration, Tinubu warned bandits, kidnappers and sponsors of terrorism to surrender or face decisive action from the state.
“Bandits, kidnappers and sponsors of terror should now surrender or face the full force of the Nigerian State. These windows of surrender will not remain open forever, and no mercy will be shown to those who trade in the blood of Nigerians,” he stated.
The President urged Nigerians to remain united and confident in the country’s ability to overcome insecurity.
“As Nigerians, we must stand united and be assured that the enemies of our nation shall soon be history. We will triumph over terror and continue to build a more prosperous nation,” he said.
Describing Abubakar’s death as a turning point in the country’s fight against terrorism and insurgency, Tinubu stressed that terrorists must be treated as enemies of the nation and should never be granted concessions.
“General Abubakar’s death should further serve as a defining moment in our battle against terrorists and insurgents, never to negotiate with them on any terms, but to continue to treat them as the greatest enemies of our dear nation, who should never be spared,” the President added.
The late General Abubakar’s death has renewed concerns over the growing threat posed by bandits and kidnappers in parts of northern Nigeria, particularly in Katsina State, where attacks on travellers and rural communities continue despite ongoing security operations.
