The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) says it has begun investigating claims that troops were withdrawn shortly before terrorists abducted students of Government Girls Comprehensive Secondary School, Maga, in Kebbi State.
Twenty-five students were seized on Nov. 17 at the school in Danko-Wasagu Local Government Area, after the attackers killed the Vice Principal.
The Director, Defence Media Operations, Maj.-Gen. Michael Onoja, announced the development in a statement on Sunday in Abuja.
According to Onoja, the DHQ has taken note of allegations by the Kebbi State Governor that the terrorists struck about 30 minutes after security personnel left the area. He said a thorough review was underway to determine the actual circumstances surrounding troop deployment and movement at the time.
He explained that operational decisions are guided by intelligence and the overall security situation in any area, but assured that any lapse discovered would be immediately corrected.
“Troops are pursuing all actionable intelligence to ensure the safe return of the abducted students, while collaborating with state authorities, community leaders and other security agencies to strengthen protection around schools and vulnerable communities,” he said.
Onoja said the DHQ was deeply concerned about the abduction of the Kebbi schoolgirls as well as the kidnapping of students of St. Mary’s Catholic School, Papiri, in Agwara Local Government Area of Niger State.
He described both incidents as “heinous acts,” noting that troops were actively engaged in coordinated operations to rescue the victims.
He added that the Armed Forces remained committed to restoring peace amid growing public concern over rising insecurity in parts of the North.
