President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has expressed deep sorrow over the death of former Defence spokesperson, Major General Abubakar Rabe, who reportedly died while being held captive by terrorists.
In a statement issued on Sunday by the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu described the late military officer as a dedicated patriot who served Nigeria with honour and distinction throughout his career.
The President extended his condolences to General Rabe’s family, the people and government of Katsina State, and the Nigerian Armed Forces, noting that the tragic incident has left the nation in mourning.
Tinubu also sympathised with the family of the deceased, especially his wife, who remains in captivity. He assured Nigerians that the Federal Government would continue working tirelessly to secure the release of all victims being held by criminal groups.
Reiterating his administration’s tough stance against terrorism, banditry and kidnapping, the President declared that the government would not give in to demands by terrorists seeking the release of their detained members.
“While the terrorists have done their worst, the government will never bow to their demand to release their members held by our security agencies,” he said.
The President further issued a stern warning to bandits, kidnappers and sponsors of terrorism, urging them to surrender or face the full force of the law.
According to him, the government remains open to accepting those willing to renounce violence, but stressed that such opportunities would not remain available indefinitely.
Tinubu maintained that there would be no mercy for individuals who continue to kill innocent Nigerians and threaten the country’s peace and security.
He said the death of General Rabe should strengthen national resolve in the fight against insurgency and terrorism, insisting that criminal groups must be treated as enemies of the state.
The President called on Nigerians to remain united and continue supporting security agencies, expressing confidence that the country would eventually overcome all forces threatening its stability.
Tinubu added that Nigeria’s enemies would soon become history as his administration intensifies efforts to restore lasting peace and security across the nation.
