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 on Saturday by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President described the late senior military officer’s death as a tragic loss and extended condolences to his family, the Katsina State Government, and the Armed Forces of Nigeria.
According to the statement, General Abubakar, who retired after a distinguished military career, was abducted by armed criminals while travelling to his hometown.
President Tinubu particularly sympathised with the family of the deceased, especially his wife, who remains in captivity.
The President reiterated his administration’s resolve not to succumb to the demands of terrorists, stressing that the government would never agree to exchange detained terrorist suspects for hostages.
While condemning the killing, Tinubu said the actions of the terrorists would not weaken the nation’s determination to defeat insecurity.
Quoting from his Democracy Day address on June 12, the President stated: “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 urged Nigerians to remain united and confident that the country would ultimately overcome terrorism and criminality.
“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.
The President described the late general’s death as a defining moment in Nigeria’s fight against terrorism, insisting that the nation must remain steadfast in refusing to negotiate with terrorists while intensifying efforts to eliminate insurgent and criminal groups threatening national security.
He maintained that terrorists and insurgents remain enemies of the state and should be confronted decisively through sustained military and security operations.
