Gunmen attacked Government Girls Comprehensive Senior Secondary School, Maga, in Danko Wasagu LGA of Kebbi State early Monday, killing a security guard and abducting at least 24 female students.
Speaking, Senator Garuba Maidoki, who represents Kebbi South, described the incident as “the most unfortunate week” of his life and admitted he feels he has failed his people. He said he immediately visited the affected community, met with the families of the victims and promised that the girls would be rescued.
Maidoki explained that although security had improved in Kebbi South after previous military operations, bandits continued to enter from neighbouring Zamfara State. He said the military had planned to establish a base in the area but had not mobilised to the site, despite acquiring land.
He praised soldiers currently pursuing the attackers, noting that some were injured during the chase, and said intelligence indicates the girls are still within the constituency.
On the school’s security, Maidoki blamed inadequate manpower and insufficient military presence. He said the attackers arrived on motorcycles in large numbers, overpowered the limited security on ground, took the girls, and also stole cows.
Only one student managed to escape. The school principal, who was injured, is recovering, while two security guards who resisted the attackers were killed.
Maidoki commended the swift response of the Federal Government, noting that the Chief of Army Staff, the Garrison Commander, and the Vice President have all visited Kebbi State.
He described Maga as “a ghost town” with families devastated and some parents hospitalised from shock. He said the priority remains rescuing the girls before broader discussions on security in the region can take place.
