President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has vowed not to grant the demand of bandits for the release of their members held by security agencies.

The president made the vow on Saturday while reacting to the death of ex-Defence spokesman, retired Major-General Rabe Abubakar, in the captivity of bandits.

The president, in a statement by his media aide, Mr. Bayo Onanuga, said while the terrorists had done their worst, “the government will never bow to their demand to release their members held by our security agencies.”

The president added: “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.

“As Nigerians, we must stand united and be assured that the enemies of our nation shall soon be history. 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.”

The president commiserated with the family of the late senior officer, especially his wife.

He also extended his condolences to the Katsina State government and the armed forces.