Government Girls Comprehensive Senior Secondary School (GGCSS), Maga, in Danko Wasagu Local Government Area of Kebbi State, came under attack in the early hours of Monday, November 17, 2025, when armed men invaded the school hostel, killed a security guard, and abducted no fewer than 24 female students.
In an interview first aired on Arise Television, the Senator representing Kebbi South, Garuba Maidoki, expressed deep sorrow over the incident, stating that the tragedy had left the nation shaken. He said the attack felt like a personal failure, especially after promising his constituents improved security during his campaign.
Recounting the Incident
Senator Maidoki explained that the event was a painful shock to the community, drawing parallels to past school abductions that once felt distant but now occurred in the heart of his constituency. He confirmed visiting the affected community, the families of the deceased security personnel, and school officials to offer condolences and assure them of ongoing government efforts to secure the safe return of the abducted students.
He described the attack as a severe setback, despite earlier progress in restoring peace in Kebbi South. He noted that before his election, more than 200 villages in the area had been overrun by criminal groups, but joint military operations later reclaimed those communities.
Security Situation and Challenges
The Senator highlighted Nigeria’s persistent security gaps, particularly insufficient personnel on the ground. He explained that small numbers of security operatives are often forced to confront large groups of armed attackers who travel in convoys of motorcycles.
According to him, intelligence reports suggest the girls are still within Kebbi South, and he expressed optimism that the ongoing military operation would lead to their safe rescue. He commended the Nigerian Armed Forces for their immediate response, acknowledging that several personnel sustained injuries while attempting to prevent the abduction.
Conditions in Maga Community
Following the incident, Senator Maidoki described Maga as a community overwhelmed by shock and distress. Many parents of the abducted students are traumatized, with some hospitalized due to the emotional impact.
He clarified that the Vice Principal of the school was not killed, contrary to earlier reports. The security head, who refused to assist the attackers, was the one killed. Another guard who resisted was also killed, while a third, who initially complied out of fear, managed to escape during the chaos.
Next Steps
The Senator extended appreciation to the Federal Government, noting the swift intervention of the Chief of Army Staff, the Garrison Commander, and the Vice President, who visited Kebbi State to coordinate rescue efforts. He assured constituents that restoring security and rescuing the abducted students remain top priorities.
He added that discussions on strengthening long-term security across schools and communities would intensify once the immediate crisis is resolved.