By Ogochukwu Isioma
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has commended Nigerian troops and other security agencies for eliminating notorious bandit leader Ibrahim Bastuji and rescuing the widow of the late Major-General Rabe Abubakar in separate operations.
The President described the killing of Bastuji as a major breakthrough in the fight against banditry and violent crime, noting that the criminal kingpin had terrorised communities in Kogi State and neighbouring areas through kidnappings, attacks and other violent activities.
In a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu said the successful operation would restore public confidence and bring relief to residents who had endured years of insecurity.
“I congratulate our gallant troops on this decisive milestone. Nigeria will not surrender any part of its territory to criminals,” the President said.
“Those who choose the path of violence against innocent citizens will find no hiding place. This success reflects the renewed determination of our security forces to secure every inch of our land.”
Tinubu noted that Bastuji’s reign of terror had inflicted untold hardship on affected communities, adding that his elimination represents a significant blow to criminal networks operating in the region.
The President also praised security operatives for the successful rescue of Hajiya Amina Rabe Abubakar, widow of the late former Chief of Defence Information, Major-General Rabe Abubakar, who was recently killed by terrorists after being abducted in Katsina State.
Describing the rescue as a testament to the professionalism and determination of Nigeria’s security forces, Tinubu said the operation offered comfort to the victim’s family and Nigerians at large.
“The safe return of Hajiya Amina Rabe Abubakar is a source of relief to her family and to all Nigerians,” he said.
“I commend the intelligence coordination and bravery of the officers and men who executed the rescue operation. We owe a debt of gratitude to our troops who risk their lives daily to keep us safe.”
The President reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to supporting the Armed Forces and security agencies with the resources needed to combat banditry, kidnapping and other forms of violent crime across the country.
“Government will continue to provide the Armed Forces with the resources, training and support needed to end banditry, kidnapping and all forms of violent crimes,” Tinubu stated.
He also urged Nigerians to continue cooperating with security agencies by providing timely and credible information to aid ongoing security operations.
The latest successes come amid intensified military offensives against bandit groups and terrorist networks across several parts of the country as security agencies seek to restore peace and protect lives and property.
