Kebbi schoolgirls abducted despite intelligence warnings – Tinubu laments

By Kazeem Ugbodaga

President Bola Tinubu has directed Vice President Kashim Shettima to travel to Kebbi State on Wednesday to commiserate with the state government, meet families of the kidnapped schoolgirls, and assure them of the Federal Government’s determination to secure the girls’ immediate release.

The directive follows the abduction of schoolgirls from a boarding school in Maga, Kebbi State, as well as the killing of several soldiers, including Brigadier General Musa Uba, during an anti-insurgency operation in Borno State.

In a statement issued on Tuesday by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu expressed deep sorrow over both incidents, noting that he had been fully briefed by military authorities.

“As the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, I am depressed with the tragic death of our soldiers and officers on active duty. May God comfort the families of Brigadier General Musa Uba and other fallen heroes,” the President said.

Tinubu also lamented the school abductions, especially after intelligence warnings indicated a possible strike.

He commended Governor Mohammed Nasir Idris for efforts made to avert the attack, even as he condemned the “security breach that led to the regrettable abduction of girls.”

The President described the attack as an assault on children’s right to education and gave firm assurances of rescue efforts already underway.

“I am also depressed that heartless terrorists have disrupted the education of innocent schoolgirls. I have directed the security agencies to act swiftly and bring the girls back to Kebbi State,” he stated.

Tinubu appealed to communities, particularly those in security-challenged regions, to work more closely with security agencies and provide actionable intelligence.

“Our security forces cannot succeed in protecting us if the people don’t cooperate and share information that will help them keep our communities safe. I urge community leaders and our compatriots across the country, especially those in the theatres of operations, to share useful information. Your cooperation is crucial in our fight against these security challenges,” he said.

Vice President Shettima is expected to meet with state officials, security commanders, traditional rulers, parents, and affected communities during the visit, as part of efforts to reassure citizens and strengthen coordination for the safe return of the abducted schoolgirls.