In a disturbing development that highlights the ongoing security challenges in northern Nigeria, twelve female farmers have been abducted by suspected Boko Haram insurgents in Borno State.
Details of the Abduction
The incident occurred in the Mussa district of Askira-Uba Local Government Area on Saturday evening, November 22. The victims were returning from their farms when armed men intercepted and kidnapped them.
Nahum Daso, the Police Public Relations Officer for Borno State, confirmed the abduction to Channels Television on Sunday, November 23. He stated that authorities have launched an investigation into the incident and are working to secure the women's safe return.
Worsening Security Situation in Northern Nigeria
This latest abduction adds to a concerning pattern of attacks and kidnappings across northern Nigeria in recent days:
- November 17: 25 schoolgirls were seized from Government Girls Comprehensive Secondary School in Maga, Kebbi State, leaving the school's vice principal dead
- November 18: Over 300 schoolchildren were abducted from St Mary's Catholic Primary and Secondary Schools in Papiri, Niger State, with 50 later escaping
- Last week: Worshippers at Christ Apostolic Church in Eruku, Kwara State were attacked, resulting in three deaths and 38 abductions before all victims were rescued
Government Response and Security Operations
President Bola Tinubu has reiterated his determination to restore security nationwide, emphasizing that he will not relent until every Nigerian is safe. In a statement posted on his official X account on Sunday, November 23, the President declared: "Let me be clear: I will not relent. Every Nigerian, in every state, has the right to safety, and under my watch, we will secure this nation and protect our people."
The President praised security agencies for recent rescue operations, specifically noting the successful recovery of all 38 worshippers in Kwara State and 51 of the missing students in Niger State. He also revealed that he canceled his trip to the G20 Summit in South Africa to focus on coordinating security efforts at home.
Meanwhile, in a separate incident in Bauchi State, armed bandits killed five police officers and injured two others in Sabon Sara village, Darazo Local Government Area. Police authorities confirmed that several bandits were neutralized during the confrontation.
The surge in targeted attacks on civilians has sparked renewed calls for a more coordinated and aggressive response to the escalating insecurity in northern Nigeria.
