A major security operation is underway in Kebbi State after armed bandits launched a deadly attack on Government Girls Comprehensive Secondary School, Maga, in the early hours of Monday, killing a Vice Principal and abducting at least 25 female students.

The incident occurred around 4:00 a.m. when, according to police authorities, “a gang of armed bandits with sophisticated weapons, shooting sporadically, stormed the school in Danko district, Danko/Wasagu Local Government Area.”

Police tactical units stationed at the school engaged the attackers in a fierce gun duel, but the bandits had already scaled the fence and forced their way into the hostels, seizing the students before escaping into nearby forests.

During the attack, one school official, Hassan Makuku, was shot dead, while another, Ali Shehu, sustained gunshot wounds to his right hand.

In response, the Kebbi State Police Command deployed additional tactical squads, while military personnel and local vigilante groups were mobilised to join the urgent search-and-rescue mission. Security teams are currently combing suspected escape routes and surrounding bushlands as they pursue the attackers.

Kebbi State Commissioner of Police, CP Bello M. Sani, condemned the assault as “dastardly” and reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to safeguarding lives and property across the state. He urged residents to remain calm, stay vigilant, and support ongoing rescue operations.

The tragic incident has once again heightened concerns about the safety of schools in Nigeria’s North-West, where armed groups continue to target educational institutions for mass abductions, leaving devastating impacts on communities and the nation’s education system.