UNICEF Condemns Abduction of 25 Schoolgirls in Kebbi

From Paul Orude Bauchi

The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has condemned the attack and abduction of no fewer than 25 students of Government Girls Comprehensive Senior Secondary School (GGCSS) Maga in Danko/Wasagu Local Government Area of Kebbi State.

The condemnation was contained in a statement released on Tuesday on the agency’s website. UNICEF described the attack, the abduction of the schoolgirls, and the killing of the school’s vice-principal as another reminder of the dangers children face in crisis-affected communities.

“This tragic incident is yet another stark reminder of the urgent need to protect children, schools, and the personnel they rely upon to learn safely,” the statement read, as UNICEF called for stronger protections for learners and education workers.

Heavily armed bandits were said to have carried out the attack, leaving the Vice Principal, Hassan Makuku, dead and another staff member, Ali Shehu, injured.

According to the Police Public Relations Officer, CSP Nafi’u Abubakar Kotarkoshi, the incident occurred in the early hours of the day when the attackers stormed the school and engaged police officers on duty in a fierce gun battle.

The assailants reportedly jumped over the school fence and forcibly removed the students from their hostel.

UNICEF expressed sympathy with the affected families and the community, calling for the immediate and safe release of the abducted girls.

“We stand with the affected community at this difficult time. Our heartfelt condolences go to those who have lost their loved ones, and we wish a full recovery for those injured.

UNICEF further urges the swift release of the abducted children,” the statement added.

The agency emphasised that schools and education personnel must be protected in line with international humanitarian norms.

“Students, education facilities, and their personnel should be protected under international law from any form of attack, and those responsible must be held accountable in accordance with national and international standards,” it said.

UNICEF also reminded the Nigerian government of its commitment to the Safe Schools Declaration, endorsed in 2015, which outlines measures to safeguard learners during crises.

“UNICEF calls on all relevant stakeholders to intensify efforts to implement the Safe Schools Declaration in Nigeria,” the agency stated.

The organisation said it is working with federal and state institutions, civil society groups and local communities to strengthen child-protection systems and improve school safety nationwide.

“These systems and environments must be reinforced to prevent future tragedies. No child should be put at risk while pursuing an education,” UNICEF said.