President Bola Tinubu has repeated his warning to bandits, kidnappers and sponsors of terrorism following the death of retired Major-General Rabe Abubakar in the custody of terrorists in Katsina State.
Tinubu, in a statement on Saturday by his spokesman, Bayo Onanuga, expressed sadness over the death of the retired general and condoled with his family, the Katsina State government and the armed forces.
General Abubakar was captured by terrorists while travelling to his hometown.
Onanuga said while the terrorists have done their worst, President Tinubu would never bow to their demand to release their members held by security agencies.
“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.
“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.”
The president had, during his June 12 national broadcast to commemorate Democracy Day, warned that his administration would not relent in tackling insecurity across the country.
Tinubu had asked terrorist groups to surrender, warning that the opportunity for those willing to lay down their arms would not remain open indefinitely.
“Though this year’s mood is dampened by the abduction of our children in Oyo and Borno, we remain hopeful for their safe return. Democracy without security is not solid enough,” the president said during the June 12 address.
(The Whistler)