Tinubu reacts as troops gun down notorious bandit kingpin Bastuji

By Kazeem Ugbodaga

President Bola Tinubu has praised the Nigerian Armed Forces and other security agencies following a major security operation in Kogi State that resulted in the elimination of notorious bandit leader Ibrahim Bastuji and the rescue of the widow of late military officer, General Rabe Abubakar.

The President described the twin successes as a significant breakthrough in the country’s fight against banditry, kidnapping and other violent crimes.

In a statement issued on Tuesday by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu said the killing of Bastuji represents a major setback for criminal groups operating in Kogi State and neighbouring areas.

According to the President, Bastuji had been linked to numerous cases of violence, abductions and attacks on innocent citizens, creating fear and hardship across several communities.

“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 noted that the operation would help restore confidence among residents and provide relief to communities that have suffered from criminal activities in the region.

Tinubu also commended security personnel for the successful rescue of Hajiya Amina Rabe Abubakar, widow of the late former Chief of Defence Information, General Rabe Abubakar (rtd).

He described the rescue operation as a demonstration of professionalism, courage and effective intelligence gathering by security agencies.

“The safe return of Hajiya Amina Rabe Abubakar is a source of relief to her family and to all Nigerians,” the President 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.”

Reaffirming his administration’s commitment to tackling insecurity, Tinubu assured Nigerians that the government would continue to provide the military and other security agencies with the resources, training and operational support required to defeat banditry, kidnapping and other forms of violent crime.

He also urged citizens to support security efforts by providing timely and credible information that could assist law enforcement agencies in preventing criminal activities.

The latest security successes come as the government intensifies efforts to restore peace and strengthen security across the country amid ongoing operations against criminal groups in several regions.