"We Won't Bow to Terrorists" Tinubu Vows No Deals After General Dies in Captivity.

President rejects ransom style demands as retired military officer's body is finally released

President Bola Tinubu has drawn a hard line in the sand: Nigeria will not negotiate with terrorists demanding the release of their imprisoned members.

The President's statement comes after the tragic death of retired Major General Rabe Abubakar, who died two weeks after being kidnapped in Katsina State while traveling to a wedding with his wife.

"We will never bow to their demand to release their members held by our security agencies," Tinubu said through his spokesperson Bayo Onanuga. "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."

A General's Final Days:

Major General Abubakar, a former Defence Headquarters spokesman who once led counter insurgency communications, was snatched alongside his wife near the Matazu area of Katsina. According to the state government, the retired officer died from complications related to diabetes and high blood pressure while in captivity.

His wife was eventually released alive. His body was handed over to the Katsina State Government and transported to Kaduna for burial.

Governor Dikko Umaru Radda called it a "dark moment" that shows why Nigeria needs a much stronger response to rising insecurity.

Military Vows Justice:

The Defence Headquarters expressed deep regret, noting they had stayed silent about the abduction out of respect for ongoing rescue efforts. "Every operational resource was deployed," said Major General Samaila Uba, Director of Defence Information. "This sad loss further strengthens our resolve. We will remain resolute until those responsible are brought to justice."

Former Senate President David Mark described the killing as a "national tragedy and a painful reminder of our worsening security situation."

Tinubu ended his statement with a sober warning: "General Abubakar's death should serve as a defining moment never to negotiate with them on any terms, but to continue to treat them as the greatest enemies of our nation, who should never be spared."