The Kebbi State Police Command confirms that armed gunmen attacked the Government Girls' Secondary School in Maga, Danko-Wasagu Local Government Area, early this morning, resulting in the abduction of 25 female students and the tragic deaths of the vice principal and a security guard.
The incident occurred at approximately 4:00 a.m. when the assailants stormed the school's dormitories, overpowering security personnel who attempted to resist. Police reports indicate that the gunmen targeted the boarding school girls, forcibly taking them from their rooms amid chaos and gunfire. The vice principal and security guard lost their lives while trying to protect the students.
Kebbi State Police Spokesperson, Nafiu Abubakar, stated, "This cowardly attack on innocent schoolchildren is a grave violation of security and human rights. Our forces have mobilized immediately to pursue the perpetrators and ensure the safe return of the abducted girls." He added that joint operations involving the Nigerian Army, local vigilantes, and intelligence units are underway to locate the victims and bring the criminals to justice.
Governor Nasir Idris of Kebbi State expressed deep sorrow over the incident and vowed full support for the rescue efforts. "We stand united against these acts of terror. The safety of our children is paramount, and we will spare no resources to reunite these girls with their families," the governor remarked in a statement.
Authorities urge the public to provide any information that could assist in the investigation. Residents in surrounding areas are advised to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities to the nearest police station.
This abduction highlights the ongoing security challenges in northwestern Nigeria, where criminal gangs have increasingly targeted schools. The Federal Government has pledged additional reinforcements to the region to curb such incidents.