Suspected gunmen abducted 18 students and two staff members of a secondary school in Kaduna State on Thursday morning.
The incident happened at about 7:45 am in Gidan Bakuso, a rural community in Chikun Local Government Area.
Gunmen Invade School During Morning Assembly
Eyewitnesses said the attackers arrived on motorcycles while students were gathering for the morning assembly. They fired shots into the air, causing panic among students and teachers.
According to a local vigilante, the gunmen moved swiftly. They surrounded the premises and forced students into the bush.
“They came in large numbers and caught many students unaware. Those who couldn’t escape were taken away,” the source explained.
Police, Troops Launch Rescue Operation
The Kaduna State Police Command confirmed the abduction in a statement released Thursday afternoon. Police spokesperson, ASP Mansir Hassan, said security forces have launched a search-and-rescue operation.
“We deployed tactical units immediately. Our men are working with the military and local vigilantes,” Hassan stated.
He assured the public that efforts were underway to locate and rescue the victims.
Governor Uba Sani Orders Immediate Response
Governor Uba Sani condemned the abduction and directed the Commissioner for Internal Security to coordinate rescue efforts. He also reaffirmed his government’s resolve to protect schools and vulnerable communities.
“This is a direct attack on education. We will not allow criminals to disrupt our children’s future,” the governor said in a press release.
Community in Shock Over Escalating Insecurity
Gidan Bakuso and other communities in Chikun LGA have experienced multiple attacks in recent months. Residents say they now live in fear as security threats continue to rise.
Parents of the abducted students pleaded with the government to act fast.
“We want our children back alive. They went to school to learn, not to suffer,” one distraught parent said.
Background: Rising Trend of School Kidnappings
This latest abduction adds to a disturbing pattern of school attacks in northern Nigeria. In the past five years, armed groups have targeted several learning institutions.
Despite military operations in the region, banditry continues to disrupt education and livelihoods.
As of press time, the fate of the abducted students and staff remains uncertain.