One of the 25 schoolgirls seized during Monday’s attack on Government Girls Comprehensive Secondary School, Maga, in Kebbi State, has regained freedom, authorities confirmed yesterday, as security agents and local hunters intensify the manhunt for the remaining captives.
The female student was said to have found her way home late on Monday, hours after gunmen stormed the school before dawn and whisked away dozens of students.
Another schoolgirl had earlier escaped during the raid.
The school’s principal, Musa Rabi Magaji, confirmed the development, saying “They are safe and sound.”
A video verified by the Associated Press showed the two teenagers surrounded by relieved family members in their village.
The daring attack prompted a swift mobilisation of security personnel across the area.
The Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu, has ordered troops under Operation FANSAN YANMA to intensify search-and-rescue efforts for the missing students.
He charged the troops to conduct “intelligence-driven operations and relentless day-and-night pursuit of the abductors.”
He added, “We must find these children. Act decisively and professionally on all intelligence. Success is not optional.”
Kebbi State Governor, Nasir Idris, visited the school shortly after the incident and assured parents that the state would work with federal government to ensure the girls’ safe return.
Residents of Maga recounted the terror that shattered their quiet community.
Abdulkarim Abdullahi said: “I was at home when I suddenly heard gunshots from the school. We were told that the attackers entered the school with many motorcycles.”
Amina Hassan, wife of the slain vice principal, Hassan Yakubu Makuku, described how assailants targeted her husband.
“Three of them entered and asked my husband, ‘Are you Malam Hassan?’ and he responded, ‘Yes, I am.’ They told him that we are here to kill you.”
President Bola Tinubu, in response to the growing tension, dispatched Vice President Kashim Shettima to Kebbi yesterday to commiserate with the families and reassure them of ongoing efforts to rescue the remaining girls.