The Chairman of Danko-Wasagu Local Government Area in Kebbi State has strongly refuted claims by a United States lawmaker that the abduction of schoolgirls in Maga occurred in a Christian community, confirming instead that all abducted students are Muslims.
Controversial Comments Dismissed
Hussaini Aliyu, the local government chairman, described comments by US lawmaker Riley Moore as inaccurate and potentially inflammatory. The American politician had suggested the kidnapping at Government Girls' Comprehensive Secondary School Maga targeted a Christian community, a claim Aliyu firmly rejected.
"The claim was inaccurate," Aliyu stated, emphasizing that all the abducted pupils are Muslims. He urged the foreign lawmaker to refrain from making statements that could escalate religious or ethnic tensions, particularly while delicate rescue operations continue.
Community Harmony Emphasized
Aliyu highlighted the longstanding peaceful coexistence in the area, noting that the Zuru Emirate, which includes Maga, "has never experienced a religious crisis." He expressed concern about the framing of the incident, questioning why it was being portrayed in a manner that could negatively impact Nigeria's international image.
The chairman's comments come as security forces continue their operation to rescue the students abducted on November 16, 2025 from their school in Danko-Wasagu Local Government Area.
Complete List of Abducted Students Released
As part of the ongoing security operation, authorities have released the official names of all 27 abducted schoolgirls. The list includes students from SSS 3, SSS 2, and JSS classes:
FROM SSS 3A AND B:
Salima Garba Umar Senchi, Salima Sani Zirmi, Amina G. Umar, Rashida Mohammed Dungu, Saliha Umar, Aisha Usman, Jamila Ilyasu, Maryam Ilyasu, Naja-atu Abdullahi, Zaniab Kolo
FROM SSS 2A:
Faitma Sani Zimri, Hafsat Ibrahim Nana, Fiddausi Jibrin, Mas'uda Yakubu Tomo
FROM SSS 2B:
Hauwa'u Saleh
FROM JSS 3A:
Surayya Tukur, Hafsat Umar Yalmo, Mary Usman, Amina Ilyasu, Ikilima Suleiman
FROM JSS 2:
Khadija Nazifi, Hauwa'u Ilyasu, Hauwa'u Lawali, Ummulkursim Abdul-Karim
The release of the names aims to assist identification efforts and support the ongoing rescue mission. Local authorities continue to work with state and federal security agencies to secure the safe return of all students.
