In a shocking and tragic incident, armed attackers invaded the Government Girls Comprehensive Secondary School in Maga, Kebbi State, northwestern Nigeria, on Monday at around 4:00 a.m. local time. The attackers, known locally as bandits, killed a teacher and abducted at least *25 students*.
Details of the Attack
- The attackers engaged police personnel in a gun duel before scaling the perimeter fence and taking the students from their hostel.
- One staff member was killed while trying to protect the students, and another sustained gunshot wounds and is receiving treatment.
- Eyewitnesses described the attackers as a large group who arrived firing sporadically, causing panic among students and staff.
- Residents reported that the gunmen marched some of the girls into nearby bushland ¹.
Response and Context
- The police have deployed additional tactical units, military personnel, and vigilante groups to the area for a coordinated search and rescue operation.
- This attack highlights the ongoing security crisis in northern Nigeria, where schools have been frequent targets for armed groups seeking ransom or leverage with the government.
- Nigeria banned ransom payments to make kidnappings less lucrative, but the threat persists.
- This incident is the first major school abduction since March 2024, when over 200 pupils were seized in Kaduna state.
Impact on Families
Families in Maga are living in fear and exhaustion, waiting anxiously for news of their daughters' safe return. The attack underscores the persistent insecurity in the region.
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