Vice President Kashim Shettima has delivered a strong message of assurance to the families of schoolgirls abducted in Kebbi State, confirming that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is profoundly disturbed by the tragic incident. Speaking in Birnin Kebbi on Wednesday, Shettima, acting on the President's directive, conveyed the federal government's deep sympathy and unwavering commitment to securing the girls' safe return.
Federal Government's Firm Pledge
Shettima pledged that the government will deploy every instrument of state power to rescue the abducted students from the Government Girls Comprehensive Secondary School in Maga. He emphasized that the perpetrators, including the killers of the school's vice principal and Brigadier-General Musa Uba, will face the full weight of justice. The Vice President described the events as a direct assault on the collective conscience of all Nigerians, noting that the grief transcends political, geographical, and religious divides.
A Nation United in Grief
"Kebbi's pain is Nigeria's pain," Shettima stated. "When one child is taken, every home in this nation grieves. Mr. President is deeply troubled by this tragedy and shares your anguish. He has sent me to assure you that this is not a moment for politics. Our priority is singular and unflinching: our daughters must return home safely." The Vice President also honored the ultimate sacrifice made by Brigadier-General Uba and the slain vice principal, promising that the nation would honor them and their families.
State and Security Collaboration
Shettima commended Governor Muhammed Nasir Idris, community leaders, traditional rulers, and local vigilante groups for their vigilance and cooperation in the search operation. He also applauded the efforts of the Nigerian Armed Forces, the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services, and other security agencies for their courage and tirelessness. In response, Governor Idris thanked President Tinubu for his concern and leadership, reaffirming Kebbi State's commitment and loyalty to the administration and expressing optimism for the girls' safe return.
The Kebbi State government has since released the names of the 25 abducted schoolgirls, clarifying that all are Muslim and countering a US lawmaker's claim that the abduction occurred in a Christian enclave. The government has called for public calm and cautioned against statements that could inflame religious tensions.
