November 21, (THEWILL) — Kebbi State Governor Nasir Idris has raised concerns over the abrupt withdrawal of military personnel just 45 minutes before bandits raided Government Girls Comprehensive Senior Secondary School, Maga, in Danko-Wasagu Local Government Area.
The attack on Monday, November 17, left one staff member dead and 25 schoolgirls abducted.
Governor Idris expressed his concern on Friday while receiving leaders of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT), who paid him a sympathy visit at the Government House in Birnin Kebbi.
He revealed that a security council meeting had been convened prior to the incident, making the troops’ sudden pullout highly suspicious.
“Military men were withdrawn 45 minutes before the attack, raising questions about who authorised the withdrawal. We have already asked the authorities to investigate and find out who gave the order.
“The state and federal governments are doing everything possible to secure the safe return of these schoolgirls,” Governor Idris said.
The governor noted that the state has received solidarity visits from Vice President Kashim Shettima and the Progressive Governors’ Forum, led by Imo State Governor Hope Uzodinma.
NLC President Joe Ajaero, who led the labour delegation, condemned the abduction, describing it as a deliberate attempt to destabilise the state.
“We view it as a calculated attempt and distraction… but we stand in solidarity with Kebbi State. We share the pain and mourn with you. Security agencies must prioritise preventive measures, and these concerns must not be politicised,” Ajaero said.
Governor Idris reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to ensuring the safe return of the abducted students and holding accountable anyone found complicit in the security lapse that enabled the attack.
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