November 25, (THEWILL) — The Nigerian Army has opened a full-scale investigation into allegations that soldiers were withdrawn from the Maga community in Kebbi State shortly before the abduction of 25 schoolgirls, vowing firm action against any personnel found culpable.
THEWILL had earlier reported rising public concern after Governor Nasir Idris alleged that troops pulled out of the area just 45 minutes before bandits stormed Government Girls Comprehensive Senior Secondary School, Maga, in Danko-Wasagu Local Government Area, on Monday, November 17.
Describing the development as unacceptable, the Governor urged federal security agencies to intensify efforts to rescue the abducted students.
A senior military source at the Army Headquarters told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) that the high command had initiated a comprehensive probe to determine the circumstances surrounding the alleged withdrawal.
The source said the matter is being treated with “the utmost seriousness.”
According to him, investigators will scrutinise who authorised the troop movement and whether standard operational procedures were followed.
He stressed that anyone found complicit—regardless of rank—would face strict disciplinary and legal action.
“The investigation is thorough and transparent. If any officer or soldier is found culpable in the unauthorised withdrawal or any act of negligence, appropriate actions will be taken,” he said.
He added that the leadership remains committed to accountability and internal reforms.
The Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu, the source noted, has consistently emphasised professionalism and warned that no lapse endangering civilian lives will be condoned.
He added that formation commanders have been directed to strengthen surveillance around schools and vulnerable communities, particularly in regions recently targeted by criminal groups—part of a broader effort to prevent similar incidents.
The Army is said to be working closely with other security agencies and state authorities to ensure the safe return of the abducted girls.
Troops are currently engaged in coordinated operations across forests and border corridors in pursuit of the perpetrators.
The source urged residents of Kebbi State to remain calm and allow the investigation to run its course, assuring that the findings would be made public to reinforce transparency and build public trust.
He further disclosed that the Army is reviewing deployment patterns in remote communities across the North-West to close security gaps frequently exploited by criminal elements.
This measure, he said, forms part of renewed efforts to strengthen rural security and safeguard schools.
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