25 schoolgirls abducted, Vice Principal killed in Kebbi State attack

Gunmen stormed the Government Girls Comprehensive Secondary School in Maga, Kebbi State, early Monday morning, abducting 25 schoolgirls and killing the school’s vice principal, Malam Hassan Makuku, authorities confirmed.

The attackers reportedly struck around 4 a.m., breaching the school fence and opening fire. A security guard was wounded during the raid, while the gunmen, described as heavily armed, fled with the students. Police say the assailants likely escaped toward neighboring Zamfara State.

A joint rescue operation involving police tactical units, the military, and local vigilante groups has been launched. Security forces are combing forested areas and other suspected escape routes in an effort to locate the abducted girls.

President Bola Tinubu condemned the attack and directed security agencies to ensure the safe return of the students. The Minister of Information, Mohammed Idris, reiterated that the federal government would not relent until the perpetrators are brought to justice. Kebbi State officials have also dispatched senior government representatives to the area to monitor the situation.

This attack comes amid a disturbing trend of school kidnappings in northern Nigeria. While some are carried out by Boko Haram or IS-affiliated groups, local authorities describe Monday’s incident as the work of armed “bandits” who often seek ransom.

Residents and community leaders in Maga expressed grief and outrage, calling for improved protection for schools, particularly in remote and vulnerable areas. Analysts warn that forested corridors along state borders make rescue efforts challenging and increase the risk to abducted students.

The abduction marks the latest in a series of attacks on educational institutions in northern Nigeria since the 2014 Chibok abduction, which drew international attention. Security experts say urgent reforms, including enhanced school security measures and community vigilance, are needed to prevent future attacks.