The President also sympathised with the late military officer’s family, particularly his wife, who remains in the custody of the kidnappers.
Tinubu’s reaction was conveyed in a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga. He also extended his condolences to the Katsina State Government and the Nigerian Armed Forces over the tragic loss.
The President stressed that despite the actions of the terrorists, his administration would not yield to demands for the release of detained terrorist suspects.
“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.
He called on Nigerians to remain united and confident that the country would eventually overcome the security challenges posed by criminal groups.
“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 added.
Meanwhile, the Senate Committee on Army has also expressed grief over the death of the retired general and former Director of Defence Information.
In a statement issued by the Chairman of the Committee, Senator Abdulaziz Yar’Adua, the lawmakers described the development as a painful loss to the nation.
“Throughout his career and in retirement, he served Nigeria with honour and continued to contribute meaningfully to national security discourse.
“The Committee extends its sincere condolences to his immediate family, the Nigerian Army, the people of Batsari LGA, and the entire Katsina State. We pray that Almighty Allah grants him Aljannah Firdaus and gives his family the fortitude to bear this loss,” the statement partly read.
The committee also reiterated its resolve to support efforts aimed at improving security across the country.
“We reaffirm our commitment to working with the Executive and security agencies to strengthen measures that protect the lives and property of all Nigerians. We also salute the dedication of our security personnel and urge all citizens to remain united and patient as efforts to restore peace continue,” it added.
General Abubakar was abducted alongside his wife on May 30, 2026, while travelling to his hometown along the Katsina–Matazu Road. The retired senior officer had left military service a few years earlier after a distinguished career in the Nigerian Army.