President Bola Tinubu has praised Nigeria’s security forces following a military operation in Kogi State that led to the killing of a suspected bandit leader, Ibrahim Bastuji, and the rescue of the widow of a late senior military officer.
According to a statement issued by presidential spokesperson, Bayo Onanuga, the operation was described as a major breakthrough in the ongoing fight against criminal groups operating in Kogi and surrounding states.
The President, Bola Tinubu, said Bastuji had long been linked to violent attacks, kidnappings, and raids that devastated several communities, adding that his elimination would weaken criminal networks in the region.
“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,” Tinubu was quoted as saying in the statement.
He also commended the coordinated rescue operation that secured the safe release of Hajiya Amina Rabe Abubakar, widow of the late former Chief of Defence Information, Major General Rabe Abubakar (retd).
“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,” the President added.
Tinubu further applauded the professionalism of the Nigerian Armed Forces, describing their efforts as evidence of renewed commitment to tackling banditry, kidnapping, and other violent crimes across the country.
He urged citizens to support ongoing security operations by providing credible information to help troops dismantle criminal hideouts nationwide.
The Presidency reiterated that the government remains committed to strengthening the capacity of security agencies through improved equipment, training, and intelligence support in order to restore lasting peace in affected regions, including Kogi State.
