Katsina State Governor, Malam Dikko Umaru Radda, has strongly condemned the deadly bandit attack on Government Girls Comprehensive Senior Secondary School, Maga, in Danko/Wasagu Local Government Area of Kebbi State, which claimed the life of the school’s Vice Principal, Malam Hassan Yakubu Makuku, and led to the abduction of 25 students.
In a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Ibrahim Kaula Mohammed, on Tuesday, Governor Radda described the attack as “the height of criminality” and “an unconscionable assault on education, peace, and our collective future.”
He commiserated with Kebbi State Governor, Nasir Idris, the government and people of Kebbi State, and the families of the victims over the tragic incident, stressing that such acts of violence are a threat to national development and social stability.
“The targeting of a school is not only an attack on innocent children but an assault on the future of our nation,” Governor Radda said. “We mourn the loss of the Vice Principal, whose life was dedicated to nurturing young minds. His sacrifice must not be in vain.”
The Katsina State Governor called on security agencies to immediately intensify rescue operations to ensure the safe return of the abducted students and to bring the perpetrators to justice. He also urged parents, community leaders, and local authorities to collaborate with security operatives to provide intelligence that could aid the swift resolution of the crisis.
“This is a moment for collective action. Communities, governments, and security forces must unite to end this reign of terror,” he said. “We cannot allow our children’s education and wellbeing to be held hostage by criminals. Those responsible for this heinous act must face the full weight of the law.”
Governor Radda also prayed for the safe return of the abducted students and for divine protection over all Nigerian children, emphasizing the need for vigilance and solidarity in the fight against banditry and insecurity.
The attack in Kebbi is part of a worrying trend of violent assaults on schools across northern Nigeria and the Middle Belt, where bandits and armed groups have increasingly targeted students and teachers, leading to kidnappings, loss of lives, and mass disruption of education. Authorities have warned that these attacks not only threaten national security but also undermine efforts to achieve universal education in affected areas.
Security analysts and civil society organizations have repeatedly called for stronger collaboration between federal and state security agencies, enhanced intelligence gathering, and community engagement to prevent further attacks on schools.
Governor Radda’s statement underscores the urgency of protecting educational institutions and ensuring that perpetrators of such attacks are swiftly apprehended and held accountable.
He concluded: “Our prayers are with the students, teachers, and families affected by this tragedy. We appeal to the Federal Government, security agencies, and all stakeholders to act decisively to bring an end to these atrocities. The safety of our children is non-negotiable.”
