President Bola Tinubu has declared that Nigeria will not surrender any part of its territory to criminals, following successful military operations that led to the elimination of a notorious bandit leader, Ibrahim Bastuji, and the rescue of a kidnapped widow in separate operations across Kogi and Katsina states.
In a statement issued on Tuesday by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President commended the Nigerian Armed Forces and other security agencies for what he described as decisive and coordinated counter-insurgency successes.
Tinubu praised the joint operation involving the Nigerian Army, Department of State Services (DSS), Nigeria Police Force and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, which resulted in the killing of Bastuji and his fighters in Kogi State.
Security sources said the bandit leader was intercepted while allegedly planning an attack on a school and residents of Iluke Bunu in Kabba/Bunu Local Government Area.
According to the President, Bastuji had long been linked to violent attacks, kidnappings and other criminal activities that had terrorised communities in Kogi State and surrounding areas.
“I congratulate our gallant troops on this decisive milestone. Nigeria will not surrender any part of its territory to criminals,” Tinubu said.
“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.”
The President said the operation marked a significant setback for criminal networks operating in the region and would help restore public confidence in affected communities.
Tinubu also applauded the rescue of Hajiya Amina Rabe Abubakar, widow of the late former Chief of Defence Information, Major General Rabe Abubakar (retd), who was freed from captivity in Katsina State.
She was reportedly rescued during a military operation by troops of the 17 Brigade in Tunga Village, where security forces engaged kidnappers in a gun battle as part of ongoing clearance operations.
Describing her release as a relief to her family and Nigerians, the President commended the bravery and coordination of the security personnel involved in the operation.
“The safe return of Hajiya Amina Rabe Abubakar is a source of relief to her family and to all Nigerians,” he said.
“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.”
Tinubu reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to strengthening the capacity of the Armed Forces and other security agencies through improved funding, training and operational support.
He also called on Nigerians to support security efforts by providing timely and credible intelligence that could aid ongoing operations against banditry, kidnapping and other violent crimes.
The President reiterated that his government remains committed to restoring peace and ensuring the safety of lives and property across all regions of the country.
