President Bola Tinubu has declared that his administration will not yield to terrorist demands following the death of retired Major-General Rabe Abubakar while in captivity in Katsina State. The President expressed shock over Abubakar's death, according to a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga. Abubakar, a former military officer, was abducted while travelling to his hometown. His wife remains in the custody of the attackers.
Tinubu extended condolences to Abubakar's family, particularly his wife still held by the captors, and also to the Katsina State government and the armed forces. The President reaffirmed his stance on terrorism, stating that the government will not release any terrorist detainees held by security agencies. "While the terrorists have done their worst, the President wants them to know that the government will never bow to their demand," the statement said.
Quoting Tinubu's June 12 statement, the release reiterated his warning to bandits, kidnappers, and terror sponsors to surrender or face the full force of the Nigerian state. He stressed that the window for surrender is limited and that no mercy would be shown to those who harm Nigerians. The President described Abubakar's death as a defining moment in Nigeria's fight against terrorism, urging national unity in defeating such threats.
Tinubu insists he will not negotiate with terrorists even as the wife of the slain General Abubakar remains in their custody. His refusal to engage comes after he publicly acknowledged the captors' demands. The administration now faces the reality of a hostage still in danger while holding firm on a no-concession stance. This puts the safety of individuals directly in the crosshairs of a broader policy.
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