A major security operation has been activated across Kebbi State after armed bandits attacked the Government Girls Comprehensive Secondary School, Maga, in the early hours of Monday, resulting in the death of a school official and the abduction of at least 25 students.
The spokesperson of the Kebbi State Police Command, CSP Nafiu Abubakar Karkokoshi, confirmed the incident in a statement issued Monday afternoon. According to him, the assault took place around 4:00 a.m. when a heavily armed gang invaded the school premises, firing sporadically to instill fear and gain access to the hostels.
Despite the presence of police tactical teams stationed at the school, the bandits reportedly climbed the perimeter fence and forced their way into the students’ dormitories before abducting 25 female students. In the course of the attack, Vice Principal Hassan Makuku was shot dead while another staff member, Ali Shehu, sustained gunshot injuries to his right hand.
Immediately after the incident, the Police Command reinforced its presence by deploying additional tactical squads to the area, while military units and local vigilante groups were mobilised to assist in a massive search-and-rescue mission. Security operatives are currently scanning suspected escape routes, surrounding forests, and border paths as they intensify efforts to track down the attackers and rescue the abducted girls.
Kebbi State Commissioner of Police, CP Bello M. Sani, strongly condemned the assault, describing it as a “dastardly act” perpetrated against innocent schoolchildren. He reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to defending lives and property, assuring that no effort will be spared in ensuring the safe return of the students.
The Commissioner called on residents to remain calm, cooperate with authorities, and provide timely information that could aid ongoing rescue operations. He stressed the importance of community vigilance, especially as concerns continue to grow over repeated attacks on educational institutions across the North-West.
This latest incident adds to the rising wave of insecurity in the region, where schools have become frequent targets for mass kidnappings by armed groups seeking ransom and leverage. Parents, community leaders, and security analysts have once again renewed calls for improved school protection measures to safeguard students and staff.
