Federal law enforcement is intensifying pressure in Kebbi State, where at least 25 schoolgirls were abducted from a boarding school in Maga, following a night raid during which the school’s vice principal was killed.
What Prompted the IGP’s Visit
- The Inspector General of Police (IGP) has traveled to Kebbi State to oversee the investigation and rescue operations.
- This comes after the Government Girls Comprehensive Secondary School, Maga, was attacked by armed assailants who abducted students and engaged security forces in gunfire.
- The abduction has triggered a significant security mobilization, including police tactical units, the military, and local vigilante groups, all now deployed to locate the missing girls.
Federal Government Response & Assurance
- President Bola Tinubu has vowed to secure the safe return of the abducted girls and has directed the security agencies to act swiftly.
- Vice President Kashim Shettima was sent by Tinubu to Kebbi to meet with the parents, state officials, and security chiefs, delivering the federal government’s message of “non-negotiable” commitment to rescuing the girls.
- The Chief of Army Staff, Lt-Gen. Waidi Shaibu, has instructed troops involved in the operation to maintain continuous, intelligence-driven pressure on the abductors.
Local & Regional Reactions
- A delegation of APC governors, led by Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma, visited Kebbi to condemn the kidnapping, express solidarity, and promise support for rescue efforts.
- The Progressive Governors Forum has pledged support for Kebbi State to help strengthen national security and to assist in holding perpetrators accountable.
- At the same time, communities are being encouraged to cooperate closely with security agencies, sharing intelligence to aid in the rescue and prevent future attacks.
Why This Incident Is Significant
- Sovereignty & Safety of Education: The attack underscores how schools — especially in vulnerable regions — remain soft targets for bandits and insurgents.
- Government Credibility Under Scrutiny: With rising public fear, the federal government’s response and its ability to rescue the girls will be closely watched as a barometer of its commitment to protecting citizens.
- Rising Pressure on Security Forces: The IGP’s presence, combined with top military involvement, indicates that this is being treated as a national security crisis, not just a local incident.
- Potential Policy Reforms: The tragedy could catalyze calls for stronger “safe school” measures, improved intelligence sharing, and more robust rural security deployment.
