Kebbi school attack: DHQ investigating alleged troop withdrawal

From Molly Kilete, Abuja

The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has condemned the recent attack and kidnapping of 25 schoolgirls from Government Girls Comprehensive Secondary School, Maga (Dank Wasagu LGA) of Kebbi State, and St Mary’s Catholic School, Papiri (Agwara LGA) of Niger State by bandits.

The DHQ added that it has commenced investigations into the allegations made by the Governor of Kebbi State that the terrorists struck 30 minutes after troops guarding the school were withdrawn.

Director of Defence Media Operations Major General Michael Onoja, who made this known while sympathising with the families and the community affected by this incident, said the Armed Forces of Nigeria is fully engaged in ongoing operations to ensure the safe rescue of the girls and the apprehension of the perpetrators.

Gen. Onoja, in a statement issued on Sunday in Abuja, reads, “The Defence Headquarters is deeply concerned about the unfortunate abduction of the 25 schoolgirls of Government Girls Comprehensive Secondary School, Maga (Dank Wasagu LGA) of Kebbi State, and St Mary’s Catholic School, Papiri (Agwara LGA) of Niger State. We condemn this heinous act in the strongest terms. Our thoughts remain with the students, their families, and the community affected by this incident.

“The Armed Forces of Nigeria is fully engaged in ongoing operations to ensure the safe rescue of the girls and the apprehension of the perpetrators.

“Regarding the allegation made by the Executive Governor of Kebbi State—that the terrorists struck 30 minutes after troops were withdrawn from the school—the Defence Headquarters is aware of this claim. In line with our standard procedure, a thorough review is currently underway to ascertain the circumstances surrounding troop deployment and movements in the area at the time of the incident.

“It is important to note that all operational decisions are based on intelligence assessments and the broader security architecture of the region. Nevertheless, if the ongoing review identifies any lapse or gap, the Armed Forces will take immediate corrective action to prevent a recurrence.

“The Defence Headquarters remains committed to working closely with state authorities, community leaders, and other security agencies to strengthen protection around schools and vulnerable communities. We assure Nigerians that the rescue effort is a top priority, and our troops are actively on the ground pursuing all actionable intelligence to ensure the safe return of the abducted students.

“The Defence Headquarters acknowledges the concerns of Nigerians regarding the recent increase in insecurity in parts of the North. We wish to assure the public that the Armed Forces of Nigeria remain fully committed to restoring peace and stability across all affected communities.”