Bandits Attack Kebbi School, Kill Vice-Principal and Abduct 25 Students

Armed bandits launched a deadly attack on Government Girls Comprehensive Senior Secondary School (GGCSS) in Maga, Danko/Wasagu Local Government Area of Kebbi State, killing a vice-principal and abducting 25 students.

The attackers reportedly stormed the school around 4:00 a.m. on Monday, scaling the fence and firing indiscriminately before gaining access to the hostels.

The slain vice-principal, Hassan Yakubu Makuku, was shot while attempting to protect students from being taken, according to residents.
“He was shot as he tried to protect his students from being taken by the bandits. It’s a great loss for the community and the school,” said Aliyu Yakubu, a resident of Maga.

Police spokesperson CSP Nafi’u Abubakar Kotarkoshi confirmed the incident, noting that the gunmen—“armed with sophisticated weapons”—overpowered security personnel on duty despite an exchange of gunfire. A security guard, Ali Shehu, sustained a gunshot wound to his hand.

A coordinated search-and-rescue operation involving police tactical units, military personnel, and local vigilantes has been launched. Security teams are combing nearby forests and known escape routes in an effort to recover the abducted students.

Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Mohammed Matawalle, condemned the attack and directed security agencies to act swiftly, stressing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s commitment to ensuring the safe rescue of the students.

The Kebbi State Government has also moved to calm fears. Deputy Governor Senator Umar Tafida visited Maga to assess the situation and reassure residents on behalf of Governor Nasir Idris, who is currently out of the state.

Atiku Abubakar Reacts

Former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar described the incident as a heartbreaking reminder of Nigeria’s worsening security challenges.
“I am devastated by the news of the tragic attack… which claimed the life of the Vice-Principal and led to the abduction of innocent students,” he wrote on X.

Atiku said the attack further highlights a nationwide crisis, pointing to similar cases of violence in Plateau, Benue, and other states. He urged the Federal Government to strengthen its security architecture, deploy additional personnel to vulnerable communities, and intensify intelligence-driven operations.

“These acts of barbarity have no place in a civilised society. Our citizens deserve protection, dignity, and peace—nothing less,” he said.