Military probing claim of troop withdrawal before abduction of 25 students in Maga

…Says Armed Forces Fully Engaged in Rescue Operation

By Kingsley Omonobi

The Military High Command on Sunday announced that it is investigating an allegation made by the Governor of Kebbi State regarding the timing of troop movements before the abduction of 25 students from Government Girls’ Comprehensive Secondary School, Maga.

In a statement, the Director of Defence Media Operations, Major General Michael Onoja, said a thorough review is underway to determine the circumstances surrounding troop deployment and movement in the area at the time of the attack.

The statement, titled “DHQ Reassures Nigerians Amid Rising Insecurity, Addresses Alleged Troop Withdrawal in Kebbi State,” emphasized that the Armed Forces are fully involved in efforts to rescue the kidnapped students.

The governor of Kebbi State, Mohammed Nasir Idris, had earlier expressed concern over the incident, noting that security agencies had received intelligence from the Department of State Services (DSS) warning of a possible attack on the school.

The Defence Headquarters’ statement reads in part: “The Defence Headquarters is deeply concerned about the unfortunate abduction of schoolgirls from Government Girls Comprehensive Secondary School, Maga, in Danko/Wasagu LGA of Kebbi State, and from St. Mary’s Catholic School, Papiri, in Agwara LGA of Niger State. We condemn this act and stand with the students, their families, and the affected communities.

“The Armed Forces of Nigeria is fully engaged in ongoing operations aimed at the safe rescue of the girls and the arrest of those responsible.”

On the allegation concerning troop withdrawal, the DHQ noted: “We are aware of the claim made by the Executive Governor of Kebbi State. In line with established procedures, a review is underway to clarify the circumstances surrounding troop deployment and movements before the incident. Operational decisions are made based on intelligence assessments and the wider security situation. If any gaps are identified, corrective measures will be taken.”

The statement reaffirmed the military’s commitment to working with state authorities, community leaders, and other security agencies to improve security around schools and vulnerable communities.

It added that rescue efforts remain a top priority, with troops actively pursuing actionable intelligence to ensure the safe return of the abducted students.

The DHQ also assured Nigerians that it is aware of public concerns over recent security incidents and reaffirmed the Armed Forces’ commitment to restoring peace across affected communities.

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