By Ogochukwu Isioma
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has expressed 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 his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President described the development as shocking and painful, noting that the retired military officer had served the nation with distinction before his retirement.
According to the Presidency, General Abubakar was travelling to his hometown when he was abducted by armed criminals.
“General Abubakar, after a distinguished career in the military, retired a few years ago. He was on his way to his hometown when the hoodlums captured him,” the statement said.
President Tinubu extended his condolences to the family of the deceased, particularly his wife, who remains in captivity.
The President also sympathised with the government and people of Katsina State as well as the Nigerian Armed Forces over the loss.
“He commiserated with his family, especially his wife, who is still being held against her will by the captors,” the statement added.
Reacting to the killing, Tinubu reaffirmed his administration’s resolve not to negotiate with terrorists or bow to demands for the release of detained insurgents.
“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 said.
The President reiterated his earlier warning to bandits, kidnappers and sponsors of terrorism, insisting that the government would continue to pursue them relentlessly.
“Bandits, kidnappers, and sponsors of terror should now surrender or face the full force of the Nigerian State,” Tinubu stated.
“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 called on Nigerians to remain united in the fight against insecurity and expressed confidence that the country would ultimately overcome terrorism and violent extremism.
“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 further described the late general’s death as a reminder of the need for sustained military action against terrorist groups.
“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,” he added.
