ABUJA, Nigeria — President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has expressed sadness over the death of retired Major-General Rabe Abubakar, who died while being held captive by terrorists in Katsina State.
The President described the development as shocking and extended his condolences to the late military officer’s family, the Katsina State Government, and members of the Nigerian Armed Forces. He also sympathised with the general’s wife, who remains in the custody of the abductors.
Okay News reports that General Abubakar was reportedly travelling to his hometown when he was abducted by armed criminals. The retired officer had previously served in the military before leaving active service a few years ago.
President Tinubu maintained that the Federal Government would not yield to demands for the release of detained terrorist suspects in exchange for hostages. He reiterated his administration’s position that bandits, kidnappers, and sponsors of terrorism must either surrender or face decisive action from the state.
The President said the killing of the retired general should strengthen the nation’s resolve to confront terrorism and insurgency, stressing that criminal groups threatening Nigeria’s peace and security must be treated as enemies of the state and brought to justice.
