Tinubu Hails Troops for Killing Notorious Bandit Leader, Rescuing Gen. Rabe Abubakar’s Widow

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has commended the Nigerian Armed Forces and other security agencies for successfully eliminating notorious bandit kingpin Ibrahim Bastuji in Kogi State and rescuing the widow of the late Major General Rabe Abubakar.

In a statement issued on Tuesday by presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga, the President described the operation against Bastuji as a major breakthrough in the fight against banditry and criminal violence across Kogi State and neighbouring regions.

According to the President, Bastuji had been linked to a series of violent attacks, kidnappings, and other criminal activities that brought untold hardship to residents, making his neutralisation a significant victory for security forces and affected communities.

“I congratulate our gallant troops on this decisive milestone. Nigeria will not surrender any part of its territory to criminals. Those who choose the path of violence against innocent citizens will find no hiding place. This success reflects the renewed determination of our security forces to secure every inch of our land,” Tinubu stated.

The President said the operation would help restore confidence among residents and provide much-needed relief to communities that had suffered under the activities of criminal gangs.

Tinubu also praised troops for the successful rescue of Hajiya Amina Rabe Abubakar, widow of the late former Chief of Defence Information, Major General Rabe Abubakar (retd), describing the feat as evidence of the professionalism, courage, and effectiveness of Nigeria’s security personnel.

“The safe return of Hajiya Amina Rabe Abubakar is a source of relief to her family and to all Nigerians. I commend the intelligence coordination and bravery of the officers and men who executed the rescue operation. We owe a debt of gratitude to our troops who risk their lives daily to keep us safe,” he said.

Reaffirming his administration’s commitment to strengthening national security, the President pledged continued support for the Armed Forces through improved resources, training, and operational capacity to tackle banditry, kidnapping, and other violent crimes.

He also urged Nigerians to support ongoing security efforts by providing timely and credible information to security agencies.

Tinubu reiterated that his administration remains determined to ensure that no part of the country is left under the control of criminal elements, stressing that security agencies will continue to intensify operations against bandits, kidnappers, and other threats to national peace and stability.