President Bola Tinubu has expressed sadness over the death of retired Maj.-Gen. Rabe Abubakar while in the custody of terrorists in Katsina State, reiterating that the Federal Government will not succumb to the demands of criminal elements.
In a statement issued on Sunday by his spokesman, Mr Bayo Onanuga, the President sympathised with the family of the late military officer, particularly his wife, who remains in captivity.
Tinubu also condoled with the Katsina State Government and the Nigerian Armed Forces over the incident.
The President described the death of the retired general as a tragic loss and said it should strengthen the nation’s resolve to confront terrorism and other violent crimes threatening Nigeria’s peace and stability.
He reiterated his administration’s commitment to defeating insurgents, bandits and other criminal groups operating across the country.
“As I said on June 12: ‘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,’” Tinubu said.
The President added: “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.
“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.
“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.”
Tinubu noted that the late Abubakar had served the nation with distinction during his military career before retiring from active service a few years ago.
The retired general was reportedly travelling to his hometown when he was abducted by the terrorists.
The President prayed for the repose of the deceased’s soul and assured Nigerians that security agencies would continue efforts to rescue all victims held by criminal groups and bring the perpetrators to justice.
