General Rabe’s Death: Tinubu Vows No Negotiation With Terrorists

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu

General Rabe’s Death: Tinubu Vows No Negotiation With Terrorists

The death of retired Major-General Rabe Abubakar in the hands of his abductors has triggered renewed national outrage over Nigeria’s worsening security crisis, with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu vowing that his administration will never negotiate with terrorists or release detained suspects in exchange for hostages.

The retired senior military officer, who once served as Director of Defence Information, died while in captivity nearly two weeks after he was kidnapped alongside his wife in Katsina State.

According to the Katsina State Government, the former general succumbed to health complications linked to diabetes and hypertension while being held by armed bandits. His wife remains in captivity, with security agencies continuing efforts to secure her freedom.

Major-General Abubakar and his wife were travelling to their hometown on May 30 when gunmen ambushed their vehicle along the Marabar Musawa–Kafinsoli road in Katsina State. Reports indicate that the attackers intercepted the vehicle, shot and injured the driver, and whisked the couple away into a forest hideout.

Subsequent investigations by state authorities suggested that the retired military officer and his wife may have been tracked from Kaduna before the attack, raising concerns that the operation was carefully planned by the kidnappers. The abduction shocked many Nigerians, particularly because of General Abubakar’s long service record and contributions to the Nigerian Armed Forces.

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About a week after the kidnapping, a video emerged online showing the retired general and his wife appealing for help while in captivity. In the footage, the kidnappers reportedly demanded the release of three detained members of their gang as a condition for freeing the couple. They also sought the return of livestock allegedly seized during security operations. The demands sparked fresh debate over whether governments should negotiate with terrorists and bandits to secure the release of hostages.

Reacting to the retired general’s death, President Tinubu said the Federal Government would not yield to pressure from terrorist groups seeking the release of suspects currently in custody. In a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President declared that while the terrorists had done their worst, the government would never bow to their demand to release their members.

Tinubu reiterated his administration’s commitment to defeating terrorism, banditry and kidnapping across the country. He also referenced his Democracy Day address, warning criminal groups to surrender or face intensified military action.

“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. No mercy will be shown to those who trade in the blood of Nigerians,” the President said.

According to Tinubu, the death of General Abubakar should strengthen Nigeria’s resolve to confront terrorists without compromise and reinforce the nation’s determination never to negotiate with groups that threaten its security and stability.

The tragedy comes amid growing concerns about the spread of kidnapping, banditry, and terrorism in Nigeria. Security experts have warned that criminal groups are increasingly targeting high-profile individuals, community leaders, government officials and security personnel.

Recent incidents involving the abduction of schoolchildren and teachers in parts of Oyo State have further heightened fears over the expanding reach of armed groups beyond the country’s traditional conflict zones. Analysts say the death of the retired general underscores the urgent need for stronger intelligence gathering, enhanced surveillance capabilities and more coordinated security operations nationwide.

President Tinubu extended condolences to the family of the deceased officer, the Katsina State Government, and the Nigerian Armed Forces. Many serving and retired military officers have also paid tribute to General Abubakar, describing him as a patriotic soldier who dedicated decades of service to defending Nigeria.

His death has renewed calls for intensified efforts to dismantle terrorist and bandit networks operating across the country and to secure the release of all Nigerians currently being held captive. As the nation mourns, attention is now focused on ongoing efforts to rescue his wife and prevent similar tragedies in the future.