By Nkechi Eze
A major search-and-rescue operation is underway in Kebbi State following the abduction of twenty-five students from Government Girls Comprehensive Secondary School, Maga, in Danko/Wasagu Local Government Area.
The attack occurred in the early hours of Monday, 17 November 2025, when armed bandits wielding sophisticated weapons stormed the school premises at about 4:00 a.m., firing sporadically as they advanced. According to an official statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer of the Kebbi State Command, CSP Nafi’u Abubakar Kotarkoshi, police tactical units deployed to the school engaged the attackers in a gun duel. However, the bandits had already scaled the fence and abducted the students from their hostel, whisking them away to an unknown location.
CSP Kotarkoshi also confirmed that one resident, identified as Hassan Makuku, was shot dead during the invasion, while another victim, Ali Shehu, sustained a gunshot injury to his right hand.
In response to the incident, the Kebbi State Police Command immediately mobilised a reinforced team comprising additional police tactical units, military personnel, and local vigilantes. The combined forces are currently combing identified bandit routes and surrounding forests in a coordinated effort to locate the abducted schoolgirls and apprehend the perpetrators.
The Commissioner of Police, CP Bello M. Sani, condemned the attack and reaffirmed the Command’s unwavering commitment to protecting lives and property across the state. He urged residents to remain calm, vigilant, and supportive of ongoing security operations aimed at restoring peace and stability.
CP Sani assured the public that every available resource is being deployed to ensure the safe rescue of the students and to bring the attackers to justice.
