The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) in Abuja has summoned all soldiers deployed to the Government Girls’ Comprehensive Senior Secondary School in Maga, Danko/Wasagu LGA, Kebbi State, the day 26 schoolgirls were abducted.

Vanguard reports that the move is part of an investigation to determine who ordered the military withdrawal from the school just before the terrorists struck.

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The Abduction Incident

On November 17, 2025, terrorists invaded the school, killing Vice Principal Malam Hassan Makuku and abducting 26 schoolgirls. Two of the victims later escaped.

The attack occurred shortly after soldiers on duty left the premises around 1 a.m., sparking outrage and calls for accountability from Governor Nasir Idris and other stakeholders.

The District Head of Maga, Muhammad Dantani, stated:

“Around midnight, I confirmed that soldiers were at their post. Unknown to us, they left at 1 a.m., just before the attack. We still don’t know who gave the order or why they withdrew.”

With the military absent, police officers took cover due to the overwhelming number and firepower of the attackers, allowing the bandits to operate unopposed from 1:30 a.m. to 3:30 a.m..

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Resolution and Government Response

The 24 remaining schoolgirls were eventually released, with the Kebbi State Government confirming that Governor Idris played a central role in securing their safe return.

The Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, assured Nigerians that the Armed Forces are intensifying efforts to curb banditry and prevent future school abductions.