President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has commended the Nigerian Armed Forces and other security agencies for carrying out two major security operations that resulted in the elimination of notorious bandit kingpin Ibrahim Bastuji and the successful rescue of Hajiya Amina Rabe Abubakar, the widow of late Major General Rabe Abubakar (rtd).
In a statement on Tuesday, the President described the operations as significant victories in the ongoing fight against banditry, kidnapping and other violent crimes across the country, particularly in Kogi State and neighbouring regions.
Tinubu said the neutralisation of Bastuji, who had been linked to a series of kidnappings, attacks and violent activities that terrorised communities in Kogi and surrounding states, represents a major setback for criminal networks operating in the area.
The President noted that the bandit leader’s activities had inflicted severe hardship on residents over the years, adding that his elimination would help restore public confidence and provide much-needed relief to 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 said.
The President also praised security operatives for the successful rescue of Hajiya Amina Rabe Abubakar, who was abducted following the death of her husband, retired Major General Rabe Abubakar, a former Director of Defence Information and one of Nigeria’s most respected military officers.
According to Tinubu, the operation that secured her freedom demonstrated the professionalism, courage and determination of the nation’s security agencies in confronting criminal elements.
“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,” the President stated.
The latest developments come amid intensified military operations across several parts of the country as security forces continue efforts to dismantle bandit and terrorist networks responsible for widespread insecurity.
President Tinubu reiterated his administration’s commitment to supporting the Armed Forces and other security agencies with the resources, equipment, training and intelligence capabilities required to sustain the fight against violent crimes.
He assured Nigerians that the government remains determined to eradicate banditry, kidnapping and terrorism, stressing that no criminal group would be allowed to operate with impunity anywhere in the country.
The President also called on citizens to continue supporting security agencies through the provision of credible and timely information, noting that community cooperation remains vital to achieving lasting peace and security.
The successful operations against Ibrahim Bastuji’s network and the rescue of Hajiya Amina Rabe Abubakar are expected to boost public confidence in ongoing security efforts as authorities intensify campaigns to reclaim communities from criminal elements and restore stability across Nigeria.
