President Bola Tinubu has said the Federal Government will not accept demands from terrorists for the release of their members in detention.
President Bola Tinubu spoke after the death of retired Major General Rabe Abubakar, who died in captivity in Katsina State. He also condoled with the family and security agencies.
President Bola Tinubu on Saturday called the bluff of the terrorists saying categorically that his government will not bow to pressure being mounted by them for the release of their members in detention.
Reacting to the news of the death of retired Major General Rabe Abubakar in the custody of terrorists in Katsina, the President, in a release issued by his Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, pointedly told the terrorists that government will never bow to their demand to release their members held by security agencies.
According to Tinubu: “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.
“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.
“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’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.”
He also expressed shock over the death of retired Major-General Abubakar while in the custody of terrorists in Katsina State.
General Abubakar, after a distinguished career in the military, retired a few years ago. He was on his way to his hometown when the hoodlums captured him.
The President commiserated with his family, especially his wife, who is still being held against her will by the captors.
Tinubu also extended his condolences to the Katsina State government and the armed forces.
Deji Elumoye in Abuja
