Trending 
President Bola Tinubu has expressed sadness over the death of retired Major-General Rabe Abubakar, who reportedly died while being held by kidnappers in Katsina State.
In a statement issued by the State House on Saturday, the President said he received the news with “shock and sadness,” describing the incident as another reminder of the security challenges facing parts of the country.
According to the presidency, the retired military officer was travelling to his hometown when he was abducted by armed men.
“General Abubakar, after a distinguished career in the military, retired a few years ago. He was on his way to his hometown when the hoodlums captured him,” the statement said.
The presidency also disclosed that the late general’s wife was abducted alongside him and remains in the custody of the kidnappers.
Tinubu extended his condolences to the family of the deceased, the people of Katsina State, and the Nigerian Armed Forces, describing the loss as painful.
The President used the occasion to reaffirm his administration’s commitment to tackling insecurity, warning bandits, kidnappers, and sponsors of terrorism to surrender or face the consequences.
“Bandits, kidnappers, and sponsors of terror should now surrender or face the full force of the Nigerian State,” Tinubu said.
He added that the government would not negotiate with terrorists and would continue to treat them as enemies of the 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,” the President stated.
Tinubu also called for national unity, expressing confidence that Nigeria would overcome insecurity and continue on the path of development.
“As Nigerians, we must stand united and be assured that the enemies of our nation shall soon be history,” he said.
