How bandits stormed our hostel at 5 am – Student opens up

A student of Government Comprehensive Girls Secondary School, Maga, in Danko-Wasagu Local Government Area of Kebbi State, has described the frightening moment terrorists attacked the school and kidnapped 25 girls.

The student, Khadijat Lawal, an SS3 pupil, said she would never forget the terrible experience. The Guardian reported that the attack happened early on Monday when armed men entered the school and forced many students into the forest.

Khadijat, who spoke through her father, Malam Lawal Altine, explained how she narrowly escaped. Altine, who has three children in the school, said his daughter was still in shock.

Khadijat said she and other students were sleeping in their hostel when strange voices woke them up around 5 a.m. Moments later, they heard someone trying to break their door. She said fear filled the hostel as the armed men tried to enter. She managed to slip out and hide, listening helplessly as the attackers moved around the school.

Meanwhile, President Bola Tinubu has directed Vice President Kashim Shettima to travel to Kebbi State on Wednesday to console the state government and reassure parents that the kidnapped girls would be rescued quickly.

The President also sent condolences to the military over the death of soldiers and Brigadier General Musa Uba, who were killed while fighting insurgents in Borno State.

Tinubu, who was fully briefed by military authorities, said he was sad that the schoolgirls were kidnapped even after intelligence reports had warned of a possible attack. He praised Governor Mohammed Nasir Idris for trying to stop the abduction.

The President urged communities, especially those in troubled areas, to always share useful information with security agencies to help keep the country safe. He said security forces cannot succeed without the cooperation of citizens.

“As Commander-in-Chief, I am saddened by the death of our soldiers and officers. May God comfort the families of Brigadier General Musa Uba and all our fallen heroes.

“I am also deeply worried that terrorists have disrupted the education of innocent girls. I have ordered the security agencies to act fast and bring the girls back home.

“Our security forces need the support of the people. I call on community leaders and Nigerians, especially those in affected areas, to share information that can help protect our communities,” the President said.