Gunmen Strike Again in Nigeria’s Northwest, Hundreds of Students Missing

Gunmen abduct hundreds of students from Kuriga school in northwestern Nigeria, sparking urgent calls for action amid concerns over security lapses and a surge in criminal activities. (AP Photo)

Gunmen struck a school in northwestern Nigeria, spiriting away hundreds of students, marking the second mass abduction in a week within the country.

Local officials in Kaduna state confirmed the attack on Kuriga school but refrained from providing precise figures on the number of missing children, citing ongoing assessments.

Al Jazeera’s Fidelis Mbah, reporting from Abuja, revealed that around 25 students had been reunited with their families, yet a staggering 275 remained unaccounted for, with the majority aged between eight and 15.

President Bola Tinubu swiftly urged security agencies to ensure the safe return of the victims and to bring the perpetrators to justice.

Kaduna state Governor Uba Sani assured, “No child will be left behind,” emphasizing the urgency of the situation.

Idris Maiallura, a local councillor, recounted the chaos, indicating that initially, 100 primary school pupils were taken, some later freed, while others managed to escape.

Parents and residents pointed fingers at inadequate security measures, expressing deep concern over the safety of their children.

UNICEF condemned the attack, emphasizing the sanctity of schools as centers for education and growth, not violence and fear.

Amnesty International echoed the call for immediate action, urging authorities to prioritize the safety of children and prevent future assaults on educational institutions.

Heartbroken parents like Fatima Usman and Hassan Abdullahi shared their anguish and frustration, underscoring the government’s negligence in safeguarding their communities.

Kidnappings for ransom have plagued Nigeria, with criminal gangs targeting schools and colleges, particularly in the northwest.

While President Tinubu has vowed to address insecurity, challenges persist, with the military grappling with limited resources and escalating violence across the nation.

Nigeria’s recent surge in attacks and abductions underscores the grim reality of coordinated criminal activities and community vulnerabilities, highlighting systemic issues of poverty and unemployment.

As the nation grapples with this crisis, the plight of missing students underscores the urgent need for comprehensive security reforms and community empowerment initiatives to stem the tide of violence and ensure a safer future for all.