14/06/2026
Tinubu rejects țerrorısťs’ demand to free detained members after Rabe Abubakar’s ďëath, pledges merciless response
The death of retired Major-General Rabe Abubakar in the hands of terrorists has once again highlighted the painful human cost of Nigeria’s long-running battle against insecurity. The tragic loss of the respected military officer has sparked national outrage and renewed conversations about the government’s approach to dealing with terrorists, kidnappers, and armed criminal groups operating across the country.
Reacting to the development, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has vowed that the Federal Government will never succumb to the demands of terrorists, insisting that criminal groups cannot be allowed to dictate terms to the Nigerian state.
Abubakar, a former Director of Defence Information and one of Nigeria’s most senior retired military officers, was abducted alongside his wife while travelling to his hometown in Katsina State. What was meant to be a routine journey turned into a nightmare after the couple was intercepted and taken captive by armed terrorists.
Despite efforts to secure their freedom, the retired General reportedly died while still in captivity, leaving his family, former colleagues, and many Nigerians devastated. His wife is said to remain in the custody of the abductors, raising fresh concerns about her safety and wellbeing.
In a statement issued through his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu expressed deep shock and sadness over the retired General’s death. The President extended his heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family, the Government and people of Katsina State, as well as members of the Armed Forces of Nigeria who served alongside the late officer.
According to the statement, intelligence gathered by security agencies revealed that the terrorists had demanded the release of some of their members currently in government custody as a condition for freeing Major-General Abubakar.
However, President Tinubu made it clear that his administration would not negotiate on such terms.
The President stated that granting the demands of terrorists would only embolden criminal groups and encourage further acts of kidnapping, violence, and terrorism across the country. He stressed that Nigeria’s security and sovereignty cannot be compromised by those seeking to undermine the nation through fear and bloodshed.
“The terrorists, bandits, kidnappers and their sponsors must understand that this government will not surrender to blackmail or intimidation. They must either surrender unconditionally or face the full force of the Nigerian State,” the statement quoted the President as saying.
Tinubu described the late General’s death as a painful reminder of the sacrifices many Nigerians have made in the fight against terrorism and insurgency. He noted that even after retirement, Major-General Abubakar remained a symbol of patriotism, discipline, and service to the nation.
The President also expressed concern over the continued captivity of the late General’s wife, assuring Nigerians that security agencies are working tirelessly to secure her safe release and bring those responsible for the abduction to justice.
He emphasized that the Federal Government remains fully committed to dismantling terrorist networks, eliminating banditry, and restoring lasting peace to affected communities across the country.
President Tinubu further called on Nigerians to remain united and resilient in the face of ongoing security challenges, stressing that terrorism thrives when fear divides societies. He urged citizens to continue supporting security agencies with credible information and to reject any attempts by criminal groups to spread fear and uncertainty.
Describing the incident as a defining moment in Nigeria’s fight against insecurity, the President said the country must remain steadfast and refuse to allow terrorists to gain strategic victories through violence and intimidation.
The death of Major-General Rabe Abubakar has generated widespread reactions across the country, with many Nigerians mourning the loss of a distinguished soldier who dedicated decades of his life to defending the nation. Others have called for intensified military operations and stronger measures to protect citizens from kidnappers and terrorist groups.
As the nation mourns, the tragedy serves as another stark reminder of the urgent need to defeat the forces of terror threatening lives and communities across Nigeria. For President Tinubu, the message remains clear: the battle against terrorism will continue, and the government will not bow to the demands of those who seek to hold the nation hostage through violence.
