The Borno State Government has announced a coordinated effort with security forces to ensure the safe return of 42 students and children who were kidnapped from a school in Mussa, Askira-Uba Local Government Area. The abduction occurred last Friday during an early morning raid that also targeted nearby homes, according to officials.
Mallam Dauda Iliya, Special Adviser and spokesperson to Governor Babagana Umara Zulum, confirmed the rescue mission in a statement from Maiduguri. He revealed that Governor Zulum has been holding intensive meetings with heads of security agencies, including the military and police, to streamline rescue operations. The state government’s top priority, Iliya stressed, is to bring the abducted pupils, students, and other victims back safely to their families.
“Governor Zulum has been in constant engagement with security agencies since the incident occurred to ensure the abductees are rescued and reunited with their loved ones,” Iliya stated.
Security sources earlier disclosed that the victims include four secondary school students, 28 primary school pupils, and 10 children taken from nearby residences. Senator Ali Ndume confirmed the attack, describing it as “barbaric and heartbreaking,” and called on troops of Operation Hadin Kai to intensify rescue efforts. Ndume warned that the incident signals a resurgence of insecurity in parts of Chibok and Askira-Uba, urging a swift military response to secure the captives.