President Bola Tinubu has expressed sadness over the death of retired Major-General Rabe Abubakar, who reportedly died while in the custody of terrorists in Katsina State.

In a statement issued on Saturday by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President described the development as shocking and extended his condolences to the late military officer’s family.

General Abubakar, who retired from the Nigerian Army after a distinguished career, was reportedly travelling to his hometown when he was abducted by terrorists.

President Tinubu also sympathised with the general’s wife, who remains in captivity, and conveyed his condolences to the Katsina State Government and the Armed Forces of Nigeria.

The President maintained that despite the tragic loss, the Federal Government would not yield to demands by terrorists for the release of their members currently in custody.

Reaffirming his administration’s stance against terrorism, Tinubu recalled his Democracy Day message, warning bandits, kidnappers and terror sponsors to surrender or face the full force of the law.

He stressed that Nigeria would not negotiate with terrorists and described them as enemies of the nation who must be decisively defeated.

According to the President, General Abubakar’s death should serve as a rallying point in the country’s determination to eliminate terrorism and insurgency, expressing confidence that Nigeria would ultimately triumph over those seeking to destabilise the country.