President Bola Tinubu has expressed deep sorrow over the death of retired Major-General Rabe Abubakar, who reportedly died while being held by terrorists in Katsina State.
In a statement issued on Saturday by the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu described the incident as tragic and extended his condolences to the late general’s family, the Katsina State Government, and the Nigerian Armed Forces.
According to the statement, Abubakar, who retired from military service a few years ago after a distinguished career, was travelling to his hometown when he was abducted by terrorists.
The President also sympathised with the family of the deceased, particularly his wife, who remains in captivity.
Tinubu condemned the actions of the terrorists and reiterated his administration’s commitment to combating insecurity across the country.
While mourning the retired military officer, the President insisted that the Federal Government would not yield to demands by terrorist groups for the release of their members currently in the custody of security agencies.
“While the terrorists have done their worst, the President wants them to know that the government will never bow to their demand to release their members held by our security agencies,” the statement read.
Reaffirming his stance against terrorism and banditry, Tinubu recalled his Democracy Day address, warning criminal groups to surrender or face decisive action from the government.
“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 urged Nigerians to remain united in the fight against insecurity, expressing confidence that the country would ultimately overcome terrorism and insurgency.
“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 added.
Tinubu further described the death of the retired general as a reminder of the need for continued resolve in confronting terrorists, stressing that criminal groups should not be negotiated with under any circumstances.
“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 stated.