President Bola Tinubu has expressed strong condemnation over the kidnapping of schoolgirls in Kebbi State as well as the killing of Brigadier General Musa Uba and several soldiers during an attack in Borno State.
In a message posted on his X handle on Wednesday, the President said, “I am heartbroken by the abduction of our daughters in Kebbi and the painful loss of Brigadier General Musa Uba and the brave soldiers who fell in Borno. Their families and the families of the kidnapped schoolgirls are in my prayers.”
Tinubu, speaking as the Commander-in-Chief, noted that he is “depressed with the tragic death of our soldiers and officers on active duty” and prayed for comfort for the affected families.
He added, “I am also depressed that heartless terrorists have disrupted the education of innocent schoolgirls. I have directed the security agencies to act swiftly and bring the girls back to Kebbi State.”
The President said he is fully aware of the rising incidents of violent extremism in parts of the country and has instructed security operatives to respond with urgency and firmness. He continued, “Our forces need the full cooperation of every community. Sharing information can save lives and protect our children.”
Tinubu further warned that “those who threaten the safety of our citizens will face the full weight of the Nigerian state.”
According to reports, the abduction occurred early Monday when armed men invaded the dormitory of Government Girls Comprehensive Secondary School in Maga, located in the Danko/Wasagu Local Government Area of Kebbi State.
During the attack, the gunmen killed the vice principal and a security guard before whisking away 25 students. One girl, however, managed to escape safely, while hunters and security personnel continue the search for the others.
In a separate incident, Brigadier General Musa Uba, who commanded the Army’s 25 Task Force Brigade in Damboa, was reportedly ambushed and captured by ISWAP militants on Friday during operations near Wajiroko village in Borno State.
The group later claimed responsibility for the killing of the senior officer and other troops, although the Nigerian Army initially disputed the report. Tinubu’s statement has now confirmed the death of Brig. Gen. Uba, describing him as one of the “brave soldiers who fell in Borno.”
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