President Bola Tinubu has expressed shock over the death of retired Major-General Rabe Abubakar while in the custody of terrorists in Katsina State. The incident has drawn fresh attention to ongoing security challenges in northern Nigeria.
The retired senior officer was abducted alongside his wife on May 30 while travelling to his hometown. Armed men intercepted their vehicle in Matazu Local Government Area.
General Abubakar, a former Director of Defence Information, had served the nation with distinction before retiring a few years ago. His wife remains in captivity.
On June 13, the Katsina State Government confirmed the general’s death. Authorities attributed it to complications from diabetes and hypertension during his time in captivity.
In a statement issued by Special Adviser Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu described receiving the news with “shock and sadness.” He extended condolences to the bereaved family, the people of Katsina State, and the military establishment.
The President particularly sympathised with the general’s family, noting the painful situation of his wife still held by the captors. He described the loss as tragic and unacceptable.
“While the terrorists have done their worst, the President wants them to know that the government will never bow to their demand to release their members held by our security agencies,” the statement said.
Tinubu referenced his Democracy Day address on June 12. He reiterated that bandits, kidnappers, and sponsors of terror should surrender or face the full force of the Nigerian State.
“These windows of surrender will not remain open forever,” he added. “And no mercy will be shown to those who trade in the blood of Nigerians.”
The President urged Nigerians to stand united. “We will triumph over terror and continue to build a more prosperous nation,” he said.
He further described General Abubakar’s death as a defining moment. The country must treat terrorists and insurgents as the greatest enemies and never negotiate with them.
Defence Headquarters also mourned the loss. It noted that the general made immense contributions to counter-insurgency operations and the professional development of the armed forces.
The military reaffirmed its resolve to eradicate terrorism. Operations have been intensified to bring perpetrators to justice and dismantle networks threatening the nation.
Public reactions on social media reflect a mix of grief and calls for stronger action. Some users questioned the effectiveness of current strategies amid repeated incidents.
Others highlighted the general’s service record and expressed hope that his death would strengthen national commitment to security.
President Tinubu’s firm stance signals no compromise on demands involving detained terrorists. The focus stays on decisive operations against criminal elements.
As the nation mourns, the case adds to broader conversations on protecting citizens and restoring peace across affected regions. Authorities have pledged sustained action.
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