PRESIDENT Bola Ahmed Tinubu has expressed shock over the death of retired Major General Rabe Abubakar while in the custody of terrorists in Katsina State.
The President commiserated with his family, especially his wife, who is still being held against her will by the captors.
This was contained in a statement sent to News Point Nigeria by his media aide, Bayo Onanuga.
Tinubu also extended his condolences to the Katsina State government and the armed forces.
He stated that while the terrorists “have done their worst,” the government would never bow to their demand to release their members held by our security agencies.
“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,” Tinubu said.
Tinubu urged Nigerians to stand united and be assured that the enemies of the nation shall soon be history.
“We will triumph over terror and continue to build a more prosperous nation.
“General 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,” he added.
Similarly, the Senate Committee on Army has commiserated with commiserated with the Abubakar family over his death.
The committee said it received the news of the passing of the retired general and former Director of Defence Information with deep sorrow.
“Throughout his career and in retirement, he served Nigeria with honour and continued to contribute meaningfully to national security discourse.
“The Committee extends its sincere condolences to his immediate family, the Nigerian Army, the people of Batsari LGA, and the entire Katsina State. We pray that Almighty Allah grants him Aljannah Firdaus and gives his family the fortitude to bear this loss,” a statement by Chairman, Senate Committee on Army, Senator Abdulaziz Yar’Adua, partly read.
“We reaffirm our commitment to working with the Executive and security agencies to strengthen measures that protect the lives and property of all Nigerians. We also salute the dedication of our security personnel and urge all citizens to remain united and patient as efforts to restore peace continue,” it added.
General Abubakar was on his way to his hometown when he was abducted alongside his wife along the Katsina–Matazu road on May 30, 2026.
He retired a few years ago after a career in the military.