President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has expressed shock and 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 on Saturday by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President described the late military officer as a patriot who served the nation with distinction before retiring from active service a few years ago.
According to the statement, General Abubakar was travelling to his hometown when he was abducted by terrorists. His death in captivity has drawn widespread concern amid the persistent security challenges in parts of the country.
President Tinubu extended his condolences to the family of the deceased, particularly his wife, who remains in the custody of the kidnappers. He also sympathized with the Katsina State Government and the Nigerian Armed Forces over the loss.
The President reiterated his administration’s resolve to confront terrorism and banditry, stressing that the government would not succumb to demands by terrorists for the release of their members currently detained by security agencies.
He recalled his Democracy Day address of June 12, in which he warned bandits, kidnappers and sponsors of terrorism to surrender or face the full force of the law.
Tinubu maintained that no mercy would be shown to individuals involved in acts of terror and violence against Nigerians, adding that the government remains committed to eliminating threats to national security.
The President urged citizens to remain united and confident in the country’s ability to overcome terrorism, expressing optimism that the nation’s enemies would eventually be defeated.
Describing General Abubakar’s death as a tragic but significant moment in Nigeria’s fight against insecurity, Tinubu said it should reinforce the government’s determination not to negotiate with terrorists but to continue treating them as enemies of the state.
He assured Nigerians that efforts to restore peace and security across the country would continue until lasting victory is achieved over terrorist and criminal groups.
