Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has condemned the attack on Government Girls Comprehensive Senior Secondary School, Maga, in Kebbi State, describing it as another tragic reminder of Nigeria’s escalating insecurity.
In a statement posted on his X handle on Monday, Atiku said he was devastated by the incident, which led to the killing of the school’s Vice-Principal and the abduction of several female students.
“I am devastated by the news of the tragic attack on Government Girls Comprehensive Senior Secondary School, Maga, in Kebbi State, which claimed the life of the Vice-Principal and led to the abduction of innocent students. This is yet another reminder of the worsening insecurity in our nation,” he wrote.
He also condemned the killing of All Progressives Congress chieftain Umar Moriki, as well as the mass abductions in Tsafe Local Government Area of Zamfara State, where entire families, including women and children, were kidnapped.
“These acts of barbarity have no place in a civilised society,” Atiku said.
The former vice president further lamented the continuing violence in Plateau, Benue, and other states, noting that many communities were being torn apart. He added that residents of Shanono Local Government Area in Kano State were fleeing their homes out of fear, reflecting a national security crisis that had reached an intolerable point.
“Nigeria cannot continue on this path. I call on the Federal Government to urgently review and strengthen its security architecture, deploy adequate personnel across vulnerable communities, and intensify intelligence-led operations. Our citizens deserve protection, dignity, and peace—nothing less,” he added.
Atiku’s condemnation came as the Nigeria Police Force and the military launched a search-and-rescue operation for the abducted students.
Confirming the incident on Monday, the Kebbi State Police Command said its tactical units engaged the assailants in a gun duel but the attackers had already escaped with the students.
According to the police, operatives from its tactical unit, in collaboration with the military and other security agencies, have been deployed to comb bandit routes and surrounding forests to rescue the victims and apprehend the perpetrators.
“In light of this regrettable incident, the Commissioner of Police, Kebbi State Command, CP Bello Sani, reiterated the command’s unwavering determination to safeguard the lives and property of residents. He appealed to the public to remain calm, vigilant, and continue supporting police operations to maintain peace and stability,” the statement added.
