President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has expressed deep shock over the tragic death of retired Major General Rabe Abubakar, who passed away while being held captive by terrorists in Katsina State.
In a statement issued by his media aide, Bayo Onanuga, the President extended his heartfelt condolences to the Katsina State government, the Nigerian Armed Forces, and the deceased’s family. He offered special prayers for the General’s wife, who remains in the custody of the abductors.
President Tinubu emphasized that despite the tragic outcome, the federal government will remain resolute and will not succumb to demands for the release of detained terrorists.
“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.
The President urged the nation to remain unified, asserting that the country’s adversaries would ultimately be defeated.
“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.
The Senate Committee on Army also expressed profound sorrow over the loss of the retired general, who previously served as the Director of Defence Information.
In a statement signed by the committee’s chairman, Senator Abdulaziz Yar’Adua, the Senate paid tribute to the late military officer’s legacy.
READ MORE: Abducted Retired Major General Dies in Captivity in Katsina
“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,” the statement read.
The committee further reiterated its dedication to legislative and executive synergy to ensure national stability.
“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.
Major General Abubakar, who retired from the Nigerian Army a few years ago after a distinguished career, was ambushed and abducted alongside his wife on May 30, 2026. The incident occurred along the Katsina–Matazu road while the couple was traveling to the General’s hometown.
