Nation in Shock as Armed Bandits Abduct 25 Schoolgirls in Kebbi, Kill Vice Principal
Story: Written by Uzuh Rita Novermber 18,2025
Panic swept through the Zuru Emirate in Kebbi State on Monday after armed bandits invaded Government Girls Comprehensive Senior Secondary School, Maga, in Danko/Wasagu LGA, killing a vice principal and abducting 25 students.
The attackers reportedly stormed the school around 4:00am, engaging security personnel in a fierce gun battle before scaling the perimeter fence and taking the girls away. Vice Principal Malam Hassan Yakubu Makuku was killed while attempting to protect the students, and another staff member, Ali Shehu, sustained gunshot injuries.
The attack has sparked national outrage, with leaders and activists condemning the escalating insecurity across the country.
“Nigeria Cannot Continue Like This” — Atiku
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar described the tragedy as a painful reminder of Nigeria’s worsening security situation. He also condemned similar violent attacks in Zamfara, Kano, Plateau and Benue States.
Atiku urged the Federal Government to immediately overhaul the country’s security architecture and protect vulnerable communities, stressing that Nigerians deserve dignity, safety, and peace.
“Deeply Heart-Wrenching” — Ezekwesili
Former Minister of Education and Bring Back Our Girls co-convener, Obiageli Ezekwesili, demanded immediate rescue of the abducted students. She blamed the recurrent attacks on a culture of impunity and failure to act decisively during previous abductions in Chibok and Dapchi.
She insisted the girls must not spend “one more day” in the hands of terrorists and called for urgent, coordinated rescue operations.
Peter Obi: “Our Children Must Never Be Left to Terrorists”
Former presidential candidate Peter Obi lamented the increasing attacks on schools and communities. Reacting from Monaco, he condemned the killings and mass kidnappings in Kebbi and Zamfara.
Obi called on federal and state governments to intensify rescue efforts, revamp the security system, and safeguard schools nationwide.
FG Orders Immediate Rescue Operation
The Federal Government assured Nigerians that rescuing the abducted schoolgirls is now a top priority. The Minister of Information, Mohammed Idris, said security and intelligence agencies have been given direct orders to locate the girls and apprehend the attackers.
A public affairs analyst, Nduka Odo, urged authorities to prioritize the girls’ safe return, provide psychological support for affected families, and strengthen security in schools nationwide. He emphasized that Nigeria can overcome insecurity if government and communities work together sincerely and transparently.
