ABUJA, Nigeria — President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has praised Nigerian security forces following the elimination of a notorious bandit leader during an operation in Kogi State and the successful rescue of the widow of a former military spokesperson.
In a statement issued on Tuesday by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President commended troops and other security agencies involved in the operation that resulted in the death of Ibrahim Bastuji, a wanted bandit kingpin accused of orchestrating attacks, kidnappings and other violent crimes across Kogi State and neighbouring areas.
Okay News reports that Tinubu described the operation as a major setback for criminal networks operating in the region, saying Bastuji’s activities had inflicted severe hardship on local communities. He said the successful mission would help restore public confidence and improve security for residents affected by years of bandit attacks.
The President reiterated his administration’s commitment to combating insecurity, stressing that no part of Nigeria would be surrendered to criminal elements. According to him, the operation reflects the growing resolve of security agencies to dismantle violent groups and reclaim vulnerable communities.
Tinubu also commended security personnel for rescuing Hajiya Amina Rabe Abubakar, the widow of late Major General Rabe Abubakar (retd), a former Chief of Defence Information. He described the rescue as evidence of effective intelligence coordination and operational professionalism by the troops involved.
The President said the safe return of the victim brought relief to her family and Nigerians at large, while praising officers and personnel who risk their lives daily to protect citizens and confront criminal groups across the country.
He further assured Nigerians that the Federal Government would continue to equip and support the Armed Forces and other security agencies with the resources, training and logistics required to tackle banditry, kidnapping and other violent crimes. Tinubu also urged citizens to cooperate with security agencies by providing timely and credible information that could assist ongoing operations.
