Tinubu Rejects Terrorists’ Demand for Release of Detained Members, Mourns Gen Abubakar

President Bola Tinubu has firmly rejected any demands from terrorists for the release of their members held by Nigerian security agencies. His resolute stance comes in the wake of the death of retired Major General Rabe Abubakar, who was in the custody of terrorists in Katsina State.

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While the terrorists have done their worst, the President wants them to know that the government will never bow to their demand to release their members held by our security agencies.

In a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu declared that the government "will never bow to their demand to release their members held by our security agencies." He reiterated his June 12 warning: "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."

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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.

The president expressed deep shock over General Abubakar's death, commiserating with his family, the Katsina State government, and the armed forces. He described the incident as a "defining moment in our battle against terrorists and insurgents," stressing the need to treat them as "the greatest enemies of our dear nation, who should never be spared."

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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.

General Abubakar was abducted with his wife two weeks prior to his death while traveling to a wedding. The Katsina State government confirmed his death, attributing it to complications from diabetes and hypertension while in captivity. Despite efforts by the state government and security agencies, his release could not be secured. The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) also expressed regret over the passing of the distinguished officer, highlighting his service and various appointments.

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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.