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From Juliana Taiwo-Obalonye, Abuja and Olanrewaju Lawal Birnin Kebbi
President Bola Tinubu has expressed relief following the release of the 24 schoolgirls abducted by terrorists in Maga, Kebbi State last Monday.
The abduction occurred at dawn on November 17, shortly after a military detachment reportedly left the school premises unceremoniously.
After a week in the den of bandits, the 24 female students of the Government Girls Comprehensive Secondary School Maga, Danko- Wasagu Local Government Area of Kebbi State regain their freedom.
Governor Nasir Idris confirmed their release at a press briefing at Government House in Birnin Kebbi, last night. At the time of filing the report, the students were on their way to the state capital “hale and hearty” according to the governor. He also revealed that parents of the students were on their way to Birnin Kebbi to receive their daughters.
Governor Idris disclosed that the girls were rescued and no ransom was paid. He said the girls would be handed over to their parents today in Birnin Kebbi
Bandits stormed the school on Monday at about 3:45 am, killed the vice principal, a security guard and abducted 26 students.
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Two of the abducted students later escaped from the bandits.
In a statement by the Special Adviser on Information and Strategy to the President, Mr. Bayo Onanuga,
President Tinubu commended the security forces for their dedication and efforts in securing the freedom of the victims across affected states.
“The relief I feel is immense knowing that all 24 girls have been accounted for.”
President also called for renewed vigour in the fight against kidnapping, emphasising the need for stronger security presence in vulnerable areas. “Now, we must put as a matter of urgency more boots on the ground in the vulnerable areas to avert further incidents of kidnapping. My government will offer all the assistance needed to achieve this.”
Recent kidnappings in Eruku, Kwara State and Papiri, Niger State have aggravated concerns. All 38 kidnapped victims in Eruku were freed on Sunday and 50 missing students from a Catholic school in Niger State were reported found safe at their parents’ homes same day.
President Tinubu has charged the security forces to intensify efforts to rescue any remaining students still held captive by terrorists, underscoring the administration’s commitment to the safety of Nigeria’s children.
