Kebbi State Governor Nasir Idris has called on the National Assembly to investigate the withdrawal of military personnel from Government Girls’ Comprehensive Secondary School, Maga, in Danko Wasagu Local Government Area, shortly before the abduction of 25 students on November 17, 2025.
Receiving a delegation led by Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Tajjudeen Abbas, at Government House, Birnin Kebbi, the governor said soldiers assigned to the school departed at 3 a.m., and the attack occurred 45 minutes later.
“We raise questions as a government: who gave the order? What was the reason? Since the incident, we have been asking questions but have received no answers,” he said.
Idris urged the National Assembly to summon military leadership for a full inquiry, insisting the situation showed that the nation’s security system was not functioning properly. He noted that despite Kebbi State providing over 100 new Hilux vehicles and 300 motorcycles to security agencies, the incident raised serious concerns.
“If care is not taken, enemies are working to truncate our democracy,” he warned.
Responding, Speaker Abbas expressed sympathy over the incident and announced a N30 million donation to the families of a teacher and a school watchman who lost their lives. He also recommended naming the school after the fallen teacher.
Experts Demand Investigation
Security experts and Nigerians have backed the governor’s call, urging the military to probe the claims and either hold offenders accountable or provide clarification.
Retired senior Air Force officer Group Captain Shehu Sadeeq said such allegations had long circulated without concrete proof but insisted the current claims must not be ignored.
“We have too many conspiracy theories concerning this insecurity, and this one shouldn’t be like the rest,” he said.
Defence Headquarters Begins Probe
The Defence Headquarters has ordered an investigation into the alleged troop withdrawal.
Major General Michael Onoja, Director of Defence Media Operations, said the military was concerned about the abductions in Kebbi and Niger states and would take corrective action if any lapses were discovered.
He assured parents that the armed forces were working with state authorities and security agencies to improve protection around schools.
Niger Releases Official Abduction Figures
Meanwhile, the Catholic Diocese of Kontagora released updated figures from St. Mary Catholic School in Papiri, Niger State, showing 265 individuals still in captivity.
Of these, 239 are nursery and primary school pupils aged between four and ten; 14 are secondary school students, while 12 are staff members, including teachers and non-academic workers.
This follows the escape of 50 students over the weekend who have already reunited with their families.
