Tinubu Mourns Ex-Army Spokesman Killed in Captivity, Vows No Concessions to Terrorists

President Bola Tinubu has expressed deep sorrow over the death of retired Major-General Rabe Abubakar, who reportedly died while being held captive by terrorists in Katsina State, describing the incident as a painful reminder of the brutality of criminal groups operating across the country.

In a statement issued on Saturday by the Presidential Spokesperson, Bayo Onanuga, the President paid tribute to the late military officer, who served Nigeria for decades and rose to become one of the most recognisable voices of the Nigerian Army before his retirement.

Abubakar was reportedly abducted alongside his wife while travelling to his hometown in Katsina State. The incident sparked concern within military circles and among security stakeholders, particularly because of the retired general’s long-standing service to the nation.

Reacting to the development, Tinubu extended condolences to the bereaved family, the Katsina State Government and the Armed Forces of Nigeria, while expressing particular concern for the late officer’s wife, who remains in the custody of the abductors.

The President described Abubakar as a patriotic soldier who dedicated his life to defending the country and safeguarding national unity.

Tinubu, however, insisted that the killing would not force the Federal Government into negotiations that could undermine ongoing counterterrorism efforts. He maintained that the administration remained committed to defeating terrorist networks, kidnappers and bandits through sustained military and intelligence operations.

According to the President, criminal groups should not interpret the incident as a sign of weakness on the part of the government.

He reiterated his position that terrorists and their sponsors must either surrender or face decisive action from security agencies, warning that opportunities for repentance and surrender would not remain available indefinitely.

The President’s comments come at a time when Nigeria continues to grapple with security challenges in parts of the North-West and North-East, where armed groups have carried out kidnappings, attacks on communities and assaults on travellers.

Katsina State, the home state of former President Muhammadu Buhari, has been among the areas affected by banditry in recent years. Despite intensified military operations and improved intelligence gathering, security agencies continue to confront criminal networks operating in forests and remote communities.

Tinubu said the death of the retired general should strengthen national resolve to confront terrorism and insurgency rather than encourage concessions to criminal groups.

He argued that those responsible for violence and kidnappings should be treated as enemies of the state and denied any opportunity to dictate terms to government authorities.

The late Abubakar was widely respected within military and security circles. During his service, he held several strategic appointments, including serving as Director of Army Public Relations, where he became known for providing updates on military operations and security developments across the country.

His abduction gained national attention after a video allegedly released by his captors surfaced online. In the footage, the kidnappers reportedly demanded the release of detained bandits and the return of seized livestock in exchange for his freedom.

The tragic outcome has once again highlighted the dangers posed by terrorist and bandit groups and renewed calls for stronger measures to secure highways, rural communities and vulnerable areas across Nigeria.