President Bola Tinubu has openly expressed his deep depression following two devastating security incidents that have shaken the nation - the abduction of 25 schoolgirls in Kebbi State and the killing of Brigadier General Musa Uba in Borno State.
Double Tragedy Hits Nigeria's Security Forces
In an emotional post on his official X account on Wednesday, the Nigerian leader revealed the heavy toll these events have taken on him personally. Twenty-five students from Government Girls Comprehensive Secondary School in Kebbi State were violently taken from their hostel during an early morning raid on Monday.
The attack occurred around 4:00 am when armed gunmen described as having sophisticated weapons stormed the school premises, shooting sporadically before scaling the fence and abducting the students to an unknown destination. Tragically, a staff member lost their life during the violent incident.
Military Tragedy in Borno State
Just two days before the school abduction, Nigeria suffered another significant blow when Brigadier General Musa Uba and four soldiers were ambushed, kidnapped, and killed by ISWAP terrorists. The attack also involved operatives from the Civilian Joint Task Force.
Initially, the Nigerian army had denied reports of the general's kidnapping, claiming soldiers had successfully repelled the ambush and that General Uba was safe. The military also refuted claims that terrorists had killed any soldiers during the operation.
However, the terror group publicly announced on Monday that they had captured and executed General Uba, sharing photographic evidence to substantiate their criminal activity.
Presidential Response and Security Measures
President Tinubu, serving as Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, stated he is fully apprised of the recent uptick in violent extremism across various parts of the country. He has directed security agencies to respond with urgency, clarity, and decisive action.
The President emphasized that he has given specific orders for security agencies to act swiftly and ensure the safe return of the abducted schoolgirls to their families in Kebbi State. He offered prayers for the families of both the kidnapped students and the fallen soldiers.
Tinubu called on Nigerian communities to support security forces by sharing vital information that could save lives and protect children from harm. He issued a stern warning that those who threaten the safety of Nigerian citizens will face the full weight of the state's power.
This latest school abduction evokes painful memories of the Chibok girls kidnapping over a decade ago, when nearly 300 schoolgirls were taken from their school in northeastern Nigeria, sparking international outrage and bringing global attention to Nigeria's security challenges.
