Governor Nasir Idris of Kebbi State has expressed deep concern over the sudden withdrawal of military personnel from Government Girls Comprehensive Secondary School, Maga, just before bandits abducted a group of students. The governor raised the issue during a meeting with the President of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Mr. Joe Ajaero, who visited Birnin Kebbi to offer sympathy over the tragic incident.
Governor Idris described the situation as “unfortunate,” noting that the state government had received prior intelligence indicating a planned attack. “As a responsive government, when we received intelligence on a possible attack, we summoned a security meeting,” he said. During the meeting, security agencies reportedly assured the government that the school would be protected and that military personnel were deployed to the area. However, Idris revealed that the troops withdrew around 3:00 a.m., just 45 minutes before the abduction occurred.
The governor emphasized that the state has demanded a full investigation into the circumstances surrounding the withdrawal. “Who authorised the military to withdraw? How did security personnel pull out at such a critical time? That is our concern. We have asked the military to investigate and identify who gave that order,” he said, highlighting the urgent need for accountability.
Idris also reassured the public that both the state and federal governments were working tirelessly to secure the safe return of the abducted girls. He acknowledged President Bola Tinubu’s directives for Vice President Kashim Shettima to visit Kebbi State and the Minister of State for Defence, Alhaji Bello Matawalle, to relocate there, ensuring that top officials are actively involved in the crisis management. Religious leaders in the state have also been directed to intensify prayers for the victims’ safety and peace across Kebbi.
The governor further described the visit by NLC President Joe Ajaero as a historic gesture of solidarity, acknowledging the union’s support during a time of distress. “We assure you that we will do everything humanly possible to rescue our daughters and return them safely to their homes,” Idris said.
Speaking earlier, Mr. Ajaero expressed concern over the timing of the abduction, which coincides with notable progress in service delivery and development under Governor Idris. He suggested that the incident may not be coincidental, but stressed that any attempt to derail the state’s developmental strides would not succeed. “This is a distraction, but we urge you to stand firm. We sympathize with you and we are with you,” he said.
Ajaero added that the NLC would review its policies to better support efforts to secure schools and borders across Nigeria. He highlighted the importance of addressing security issues collaboratively and without politicization, promising that the union would work toward a lasting solution.
As Kebbi State grapples with this alarming security breach, both government officials and civil society leaders are emphasizing the need for vigilance, accountability, and a united approach to ensure the safety of students and restore public confidence in the protection of educational institutions.
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