The Coalition of Nigerian Youth Leaders (CONYL) has issued a strong condemnation of the abduction and brutal murder of former Director of Defence Information, Major General Rabe Abubakar (retired), by terrorists operating in Katsina State. The group described the act as barbaric and a painful reminder of the alarming insecurity plaguing the nation.
Youth Leaders Express Outrage
In a statement, the youths expressed deep sorrow and anger, stating: “It is heartbreaking and unacceptable that a man who dedicated the greater part of his life to defending the territorial integrity and sovereignty of Nigeria, and who rose to the prestigious rank of Major General in the Nigerian Army, could be abducted and murdered by criminals with such audacity.”
The statement, signed by CONYL President General Goodluck Ibem, emphasized that the killing was not merely an attack on an individual or his family, but “a direct assault on the Nigerian state and a damning indictment of the deteriorating security situation across the country.”
No Nigerian Is Safe
CONYL warned that if a retired Major General can be kidnapped and killed by terrorists, then no Nigerian is safe. “The ordinary farmer, trader, student, civil servant, traditional ruler, religious leader, and every other citizen are now left vulnerable to the menace of terrorism, banditry, kidnapping, and violent criminality,” the group stated.
They noted that the security situation in Nigeria has reached a crescendo, with citizens living in fear while criminals operate with alarming boldness. “Every day brings fresh reports of kidnappings, killings, attacks on communities, and destruction of livelihoods. This trend is unacceptable and must not be allowed to continue,” they added.
Call for Decisive Leadership
The group called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to demonstrate decisive leadership by ending the scourge of insecurity once and for all. “Nigerians deserve to live in peace and security. The protection of lives and property remains the primary responsibility of government, and the time has come for stronger, more proactive, and result-oriented measures to defeat terrorists, bandits, kidnappers, and all enemies of the Nigerian state,” they stated.
CONYL urged an immediate review and strengthening of the nation’s security architecture, intensification of intelligence gathering, deployment of advanced security technologies, and ensuring that all security agencies are adequately equipped and motivated to confront criminal elements wherever they hide.
The group said the continued loss of innocent lives and the increasing boldness of terrorists represent a grave threat to national unity, economic development, and public confidence in government institutions.
CONYL extended its deepest condolences to the Nigerian Armed Forces, the Government and people of Katsina State, the entire nation, and the immediate family of the late Major General Rabe Abubakar over the tragic and irreparable loss.
