Fidelia Soriwei, Abuja
President Bola Tinubu has expressed grief over the death of retired Major-General Rabe Abubakar, who died while being held by kidnappers in Katsina State.
In a statement issued by the Presidency on Saturday, Tinubu described the former military officer’s death as a tragic loss and extended his condolences to the bereaved family, the people of Katsina State and the Nigerian Armed Forces.
According to the statement, the retired general was travelling to his hometown when he was abducted by armed men. His wife was also taken during the incident and remains in captivity.
The President said he received news of Abubakar’s death with “shock and sadness,” noting that the incident underscored the need to sustain efforts against kidnapping and other violent crimes.
“President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has expressed shock over the death of retired Major-General Rabe Abubakar while in the custody of terrorists in Katsina State,” the statement said.
The President reaffirmed the government’s commitment to tackling insecurity and bringing perpetrators of violent crimes to justice.
“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 stated.
Tinubu also called for national unity in the fight against insecurity, expressing confidence that the country would overcome the threat posed by criminal groups.
“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 added that the late General’s death should strengthen the resolve of security agencies and citizens in the ongoing effort to combat terrorism, banditry and kidnapping across the country.
“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 statement added.
