President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has expressed deep sadness over the death of retired Major General Rabe Abubakar, who reportedly 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, Tinubu described the incident as shocking and heartbreaking, extending his condolences to the deceased’s family, the Katsina State Government, and the Nigerian Armed Forces.
The late General Abubakar, a respected senior military officer, was said to have been abducted by armed criminals while travelling to his hometown after retiring from active military service a few years ago.
President Tinubu particularly sympathised with the family of the deceased, expressing concern over the continued captivity of the late general’s wife, who remains in the hands of the abductors.
The President reiterated his administration’s firm stance against negotiating with terrorists, stressing that the Federal Government would not succumb to demands for the release of detained terrorist suspects in exchange for hostages.
“While the terrorists have done their worst, the government will never bow to their demands to release their members being held by our security agencies,” the President stated.
Reaffirming his commitment to tackling insecurity, Tinubu referenced his Democracy Day address of June 12, in which he warned bandits, kidnappers, and sponsors of terrorism to surrender or face decisive action from the Nigerian 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 said.
The President called on Nigerians to remain united in the fight against terrorism, expressing confidence that the country would ultimately overcome the threat posed by criminal and insurgent groups.
According to him, the death of General Abubakar should serve as a defining moment in Nigeria’s ongoing battle against terrorism and insurgency.
“General Abubakar’s death should further serve as a defining moment in our battle against terrorists and insurgents. We must never negotiate with them on any terms but continue to treat them as the greatest enemies of our nation,” Tinubu said.
The President assured citizens that the government remains committed to restoring peace and security across the country while pursuing a more prosperous future for all Nigerians.