Gunmen attacked Government Girls Comprehensive Secondary School in Maga, Kebbi State, early on Monday. They abducted 25 female students and killed the vice principal, Hassan Makuku. Additionally, attackers injured a security guard, Ali Shehu, with a gunshot to his hand.
Governor Points to Sabotage
Governor Nasir Idris quickly blamed security forces. He claimed the military withdrew from the school at 3 a.m., just before the attack. DSS intelligence had warned of the threat, prompting a deployment.
Idris called the incident clear sabotage. He asked who authorized the pullout and set up a panel to investigate. Moreover he urged prayers for the girls’ safe return.
Federal Government Steps In
President Bola Tinubu directed Vice President Kashim Shettima to visit Kebbi. He also relocated Defence Minister Bello Matawalle there to oversee operations.
The military vowed to pursue the abductors relentlessly. Chief of Army Staff Waidi Shaibu ordered intelligence-driven rescues. Meanwhile the federal government affirmed a clear mandate for forces to free the students.
Outrage and Calls for Action
NLC President Joe Ajaero visited and labeled the timing suspicious. He saw it as an attempt to halt state progress.The Senate demanded 100,000 more troops and probed school safety programs.
The people feel a sense of betrayal and are calling for better security coverage in schools. This incident is one of the many instances of banditry reported in northwest Nigeria.
