KEY POINTS
- Tinubu suspends South Africa trip for security updates.
- At least 25 schoolgirls were abducted in Kebbi.
- Additional security deployed to Eruku.
President Bola Tinubu has postponed his scheduled trip to South Africa for the G20 Leaders’ Summit amid escalating concerns over Kebbi schoolgirl abductions and a recent attack on worshippers in Eruku, Kwara State.
The decision comes as Tinubu awaits detailed security briefings from Vice President Kashim Shettima on both crises. Onanuga, the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, said authorities have deployed additional security personnel to Eruku and Ekiti Local Government Area to stabilize the situation.
President focuses on Kebbi schoolgirl abductions
Officials confirmed that Tinubu requested firsthand reports from local leaders in Kebbi, alongside updates from the police and Department of State Services. The President emphasized the urgent need to rescue the abducted students of Government Girls Comprehensive Secondary School, Maga, in Danko/Wasagu Local Government Area.
Armed bandits stormed the school on Monday, killing Vice Principal Hassan Makuku, who reportedly attempted to protect the students. At least 25 schoolgirls were abducted during the attack, which threw the Zuru Emirate into panic. The Kebbi State Police Command verified both the deaths and abductions.
Security intensified following Kebbi schoolgirl abductions
In response to the incident, Tinubu directed security agencies to pursue the perpetrators and ensure the safe return of the kidnapped students. He also ordered additional security in Eruku after a bandit attack on Christ Apostolic Church worshippers in Kwara State.
The President commiserated with the military over casualties sustained in ongoing operations, including the death of Brigadier General Musa Uba in Borno State. Tinubu described the events as “serious setbacks” and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to protecting residents from insurgent attacks.
Tinubu’s decision to put off his trips to the G20 and AU-EU meetings shows that protecting people at home, especially the kidnappings of schoolgirls in Kebbi, is still a high priority. Officials will provide updates to the public as they continue rescue operations and restore order.
