No Mercy Will Be Shown – Tinubu Mourns Gen Abubakar, Says Death Must Strengthen War Against Terror

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has said the death of retired Major-General Rabe Abubakar in the custody of terrorists should reinforce Nigeria’s determination to defeat terrorism, banditry and other forms of violent criminality threatening the nation’s security.

The President, who expressed shock and sadness over the former military officer’s death, also commiserated with his family, the Katsina State Government and the armed forces, while expressing concern that the deceased’s wife remains in captivity.

In a statement issued on Saturday by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu described the killing as a tragic loss and reiterated his administration’s resolve not to negotiate with terrorists or bow to their demands.

General Abubakar, who retired from the military after what the Presidency described as a distinguished career, was reportedly travelling to his hometown when he was abducted by armed men.

Reacting to the development, the President said: “While the terrorists have done their worst, the government will never bow to their demand to release their members held by our security agencies.”

Tinubu maintained that those engaged in kidnapping, terrorism and violent crimes would continue to face the full weight of the law, stressing that the government remains committed to eliminating threats to national peace and stability.

Recalling his Democracy Day address delivered on June 12, the President restated his warning to criminal elements across the country.

“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,’” he said.

He urged Nigerians to remain united and steadfast in support of ongoing efforts to tackle insecurity, expressing confidence that the country would ultimately prevail against those seeking to undermine its peace and progress.

“As Nigerians, we must stand united and be assured that the enemies of our nation shall soon be history. We will triumph over terror and continue to build a more prosperous nation,” he added.

The President further said the circumstances surrounding the death of the retired general should serve as a rallying point in the nation’s campaign against terrorism and insurgency.

“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,” Tinubu stated.