DHQ probes alleged troop withdrawal before Kebbi school abductions

The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has launched an investigation into allegations that soldiers pulled out 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, killed the Vice Principal, and kidnapped 25 students.

In a statement on Sunday, the Director of Defence Media Operations, Maj.-Gen. Michael Onoja, said the DHQ is reviewing remarks by the Kebbi State Governor, who claimed the assault occurred roughly 30 minutes after security personnel left the community.

Onoja confirmed that a detailed assessment is underway to establish the precise circumstances surrounding troop deployment and movements at the time. He noted that military decisions are usually informed by intelligence and the broader security environment, but emphasized that any identified lapse would be addressed without delay.

He added that troops are acting on all credible intelligence to secure the release of the abducted students, working in collaboration with state authorities, local leaders, and other security agencies to strengthen protection for schools and vulnerable communities.

The DHQ also voiced deep concern over both the Kebbi incident and the earlier kidnapping of students from St. Mary’s Catholic School in Papiri, Niger State. Onoja condemned the attacks as “heinous acts” and reaffirmed that the Armed Forces are fully engaged in coordinated operations to rescue all victims.

Acknowledging growing public anxiety over escalating insecurity in parts of the North, he assured citizens that the military remains resolute in its efforts to restore peace and stability across affected regions.