By President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has expressed deep sadness over the death of retired Major-General Rabe Abubakar, who reportedly died while in the custody of terrorists in Katsina State.
According to a statement issued by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga on Saturday, June 13, 2026, the former military officer was travelling to his hometown when he was abducted by armed men.
President Tinubu described the incident as tragic and painful, noting that General Abubakar served the country with distinction during his years in the Nigerian military before retiring from active service.
The President extended condolences to the late general’s family and expressed concern over the continued captivity of his wife, who remains in the hands of the abductors.
He also sympathised with the government and people of Katsina State, as well as members of the Armed Forces of Nigeria over the loss.
Reaffirming his administration’s position against negotiating with terrorists, Tinubu declared that the Federal Government would not yield to demands for the release of detained members or criminal elements.
The President warned that bandits, kidnappers and terror sponsors must surrender or face decisive action from the Nigerian state.
“Bandits, kidnappers, and sponsors of terror should now surrender or face the full force of the Nigerian State,” Tinubu said.
He added that no mercy would be shown to those responsible for violence and bloodshed across the country.
The President described the killing of the retired general as another painful reminder of the country’s security challenges, insisting that terrorists and insurgents must continue to be treated as enemies of the nation.
Tinubu further assured Nigerians that the government remained committed to defeating terrorism and restoring peace across the country.
