Governor Nasir Idris of Kebbi State has expressed concern over the withdrawal of military personnel from Government Girls Comprehensive Secondary School in Maga, shortly before the abduction of students by bandits. The governor raised this issue during a meeting with the President of the Nigeria Labour Congress, Joe Ajaero, who paid a sympathy visit to the state following the incident.
According to Governor Idris, the state government had received intelligence reports of a potential attack and subsequently convened a security meeting. Despite assurances from security agencies that all was well and that personnel would be deployed to the school, the military withdrew from the area by 3:00 a.m., and the abduction occurred at 3:45 a.m. The governor has demanded a full investigation into the circumstances surrounding the withdrawal, questioning who authorized the military to leave and how security personnel could pull out at such a critical time.
The state and federal governments are working together to ensure the safe return of the abducted girls. Governor Idris appreciated the support of President Bola Tinubu, who directed Vice-President Kashim Shettima to visit the state, and the Minister of State for Defence, Alhaji Bello Matawalle, who has relocated to Kebbi. The governor also directed clerics to intensify prayers for the safe return of the victims and for peace in the state.
The Nigeria Labour Congress has condemned the abduction, describing it as a worrisome incident that occurred at a time when the state was recording significant progress in service delivery and development under Governor Idris. The NLC president, Joe Ajaero, believes that the abduction was not a mere coincidence and that any attempt to derail the state’s developmental strides would not succeed. The labour union has pledged to review its policies to support efforts aimed at securing schools and borders across the country.
The incident has highlighted the need for increased security measures in schools and borders. The Kebbi State government and the federal government are working together to ensure that the abducted girls are rescued and returned safely to their homes. The international community is watching the situation closely, and it is hoped that a lasting solution will be found to address the security challenges facing the country.