Tinubu to Bandits on Retired General's Death: You've done your worst, we will never bow to your Demand

President Bola Tinubu has expressed shock over the death of retired Major-General Rabe Abubakar while in the custody of terrorists in Katsina State.

This is contained in a statement issued by Presidential Spokesperson, Bayo Onanuga, on Saturday in Abuja.

The president described the late officer as a distinguished soldier who served the nation meritoriously before retiring from the military.

Abubakar was reportedly travelling with his wife to his hometown when he was abducted by the terrorists.

Tinubu commiserated with the family of the deceased, particularly his wife, who remains in captivity, and extended condolences to the Katsina State Government and the Armed Forces of Nigeria.

The president said the killing would not weaken the government’s resolve to defeat terrorism and criminality across the country.

“While the terrorists have done their worst, they should know that the government will never bow to their demand to release their members held by our security agencies,” he said.

Reiterating his Democracy Day message, Tinubu warned bandits, kidnappers and sponsors of terror to surrender or face the full force of the law.

“As I said on June 12, 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 said.

The president urged Nigerians to remain united and confident that the country’s enemies would ultimately be defeated.

He said the death of the retired general should serve as a defining moment in the nation’s fight against terrorism and insurgency.

“Gen. 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,” Tinubu said.

Abubakar, a former Army spokesman, was last seen in a video released by his captors, who demanded the release of detained bandits and seized livestock.

Credit NAN: Texts excluding Headline

Why Nigerian Military withheld Public Comments on Late Retired General’s Abduction - DHQ

The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has confirmed the death of retired Maj.-Gen. Rabe Abubakar, while in captivity after being abducted by terrorists.

The Director of Defence Information, Maj.-Gen. Samaila Uba, disclosed this in a statement on Saturday in Abuja, and expressed the Armed Forces of Nigeria’s (AFN) deep sorrow over the tragic loss.

Uba said the military withheld public comments on the retired general’s abduction to avoid jeopardising ongoing rescue efforts mounted by the armed forces and other security agencies.

He said every available operational resources was deployed in the bid to secure the safe release of the former military spokesman before his death

“The DHQ regrets to announce the passing of retired Maj.Gen. Rabe Abubakar, who tragically lost his life in captivity following his abduction,” he said.

“We extend our heartfelt condolences to the family of the late senior officer, his associates and Nigerians at large over the painful loss,” he said .

He described Abubakar as a distinguished officer who served the nation with honour and professionalism in several strategic appointments during his military career.

“The deceased served as spokesman for various military formations and later as Director of Defence Information, where he played a significant role in projecting the activities and operations of the military.

“He also made notable contributions to counter-insurgency operations, the professional development of military personnel and other national security initiatives.

“His commitment to duty and the unity of Nigeria remains a shining example for all personnel of the Armed Forces of Nigeria,” he said.

Uba said that the unfortunate incident had further strengthened the resolve of the military to intensify operations against terrorists, bandits and other criminal elements threatening national security.

He added that ongoing operations across the country had already been reinforced in response to the growing wave of abductions and violent attacks, including the incident involving the retired general.

“The DHQ reiterates its determination to dismantle terrorist networks and restore lasting peace and security across the country.

“The military remains committed to defending Nigeria’s sovereignty, protecting citizens and ensuring that those responsible for acts of terrorism are brought to justice.

“We assure Nigerians that the Armed Forces will not relent until peace and security are restored and those responsible for terrorist activities across the nation are held to account,” he said.

Credit NAN: Texts excluding Headline

How Retired Katsina Born Army General died in Custody of Bandits

The Katsina State Government has announced the death of retired Maj.-Gen. Rabe Abubakar, while in the custody of bandits, describing the development as a tragic loss to the state and the nation.

The announcement was contained in a statement issued on Saturday by the Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Nasiru Mu’azu.

According to the statement, the retired military officer died from complications arising from diabetes and hypertension while being held captive by his abductors.

Mu’azu said the unfortunate development occurred despite sustained efforts by the Katsina State Government and various security agencies to secure the safe release of the former senior military officer.

“It is with profound sadness that we confirm the death of retired Maj,-Gen. Rabe Abubakar while in bandits’ captivity.

“Despite the relentless and concerted efforts of the state government and security agencies to secure his safe release, the situation ended in this tragedy,” he said.

The commissioner described the late general’s abduction and subsequent death as a monumental loss, not only to his immediate family and Katsina, but also to the entire country.

He conveyed the condolences of Governor Dikko Radda to the bereaved family and Nigerians at large, noting that the governor viewed the incident as a dark moment in the state’s fight against insecurity.

According to him, Radda said the tragedy underscores the urgent need for a united and intensified effort against criminal elements threatening the peace and security of communities.

“The governor extends his deepest condolences to the family of the late general and the nation.

“He described the incident as a dark moment and a reminder of the need for collective action in tackling the menace of banditry and other security challenges,” Mu’azu stated.

The commissioner reiterated the state government’s commitment to working closely with the Federal Government and security agencies to ensure that those responsible for the crime are brought to justice.

He also assured residents that the government’s resolve to combat banditry and guarantee the safety of lives and property across the state remained unwavering.

Mu’azu prayed for the peaceful repose of the deceased and urged citizens to continue supporting security agencies in their efforts to restore lasting peace in the state.

Credit NAN: Texts excluding Headline