A fresh wave of insecurity struck Niger State early this morning after armed men invaded a school around 2am, abducting an unspecified number of pupils and staff.
The Secretary to the Niger State Government, Alhaji Abubakar Usman, confirmed the incident but noted that the exact number of abducted individuals is still unclear. He explained that security agencies are currently assessing the situation to determine the full scale of the attack.
According to him, “the exact number of abducted pupils is yet to be confirmed as security agencies continue to assess the situation.”
The State Commissioner of Police, Adamu Abdullahi Ellema, also verified the development. He revealed that police tactical teams, military units, and other security operatives have already been deployed to the area and are combing nearby forests in an effort to rescue the victims.
In a statement, Usman disclosed that the attack occurred despite prior intelligence warning of an increased security threat across parts of the Niger North Senatorial District. He said the government had earlier issued a security alert, halting all construction activities and temporarily closing all boarding schools in the affected region as a safety measure.
He added that security agencies have commenced a full-scale investigation alongside coordinated search-and-rescue efforts aimed at ensuring the safe return of the pupils.
The government assured residents that it is maintaining close communication with security formations and will share updates as new information emerges.
Meanwhile, the Head of the Department of Disaster and Relief in Agwara Local Government, Ahmed Abdullahi Rofia, confirmed that the number of students and staff abducted is still being verified.
When contacted, the police spokesperson, SP Wasiu Abiodun, said more details would be released as soon as they are available.
