The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has launched an investigation into claims that soldiers were withdrawn shortly before terrorists abducted students from Government Girls Comprehensive Secondary School, Maga, in Kebbi State.
On November 17, armed attackers stormed the school in Danko-Wasagu Local Government Area, killing the Vice Principal and abducting 25 students.
In a statement issued on Sunday in Abuja, the Director of Defence Media Operations, Maj.-Gen. Michael Onoja, said the military is aware of the Kebbi State Governor’s allegation that the terrorists struck less than 30 minutes after security personnel left the area.
According to him, a detailed review is underway to determine the exact circumstances surrounding troop deployment and movement at the time of the incident. He noted that while operational decisions are guided by intelligence and broader security assessments, any identified lapses will be addressed immediately.
Onoja added that troops are acting on all credible intelligence to secure the safe return of the abducted schoolgirls, working in collaboration with state authorities, community leaders and sister security agencies to strengthen the protection of schools and vulnerable communities.
The DHQ also expressed concern over the Kebbi attack as well as the recent abduction of students from St. Mary’s Catholic School, Papiri, in Agwara LGA of Niger State. Onoja condemned the incidents as “heinous acts” and assured that the military is fully engaged in coordinated operations to rescue all victims.
He acknowledged growing public anxiety over rising insecurity in the North but maintained that the Armed Forces remain committed to restoring peace and stability across affected communities.
