Tinubu Condoles Family of Late Maj.-Gen. Abubakar

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has expressed sadness over the death of retired Major-General Rabe Abubakar, who was killed while in the custody of terrorists in Katsina State, describing the incident as tragic and unacceptable.

The former senior military officer was reportedly abducted by armed criminals while travelling to his hometown after retirement from active service. He was held alongside his wife, who is still believed to be in captivity.

In a statement, the President commiserated with the bereaved family, especially the children of the late officer, and extended condolences to the Katsina State Government and the Nigerian Armed Forces over the loss.

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Tinubu also condemned the killing, noting that the government will not yield to the demands of terrorists or negotiate under conditions that threaten national security.

According to him, the administration remains committed to strengthening ongoing military operations against armed groups across the country and ensuring the safe return of all abducted persons still in captivity.

Reiterating his position on national security, the President warned that criminal groups will face sustained pressure from security forces until they are completely dismantled.

He stressed that Nigeria would not accept any arrangement that empowers or legitimises violent actors, adding that recent incidents should reinforce the urgency of ongoing counter-terrorism efforts.

Tinubu also recalled his earlier remarks on June 12, where he urged criminal elements to surrender or face decisive action from the Nigerian state, insisting that there would be no compromise in the fight against terrorism and kidnapping.

He described the late Major-General Abubakar as a patriot who served the country with distinction, saying his death should further strengthen national resolve to defeat insecurity.

The President assured Nigerians that security agencies are being supported with necessary resources and intelligence to intensify operations against criminal networks operating in different parts of the country.