The Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, has confirmed the release of the 24 schoolgirls abducted from Government Girls Comprehensive Secondary School, Maga, in Danko-Wasagu Local Government Area of Kebbi State.
Matawalle, who arrived in Kebbi last Friday following a directive from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has been coordinating with security agencies to ensure a swift rescue operation. The minister provided regular updates on the progress of the operation until the girls were successfully rescued.
In a statement on Tuesday, Matawalle said,
“Our tactical team has successfully rescued the abducted students of Government Girls’ Comprehensive Secondary School, Maga, Kebbi State. This mission was carried out in line with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s directive to ensure their safe return. I commend our security and intelligence forces for their swift response, dedication, and professionalism.”
It was earlier reported that one of the girls escaped from her captors before the rescue operation. The abduction occurred in the early hours of Monday, November 17, when armed men stormed the boarding school, killing the vice principal and abducting 25 students.
President Bola Tinubu, who welcomed the girls, said in a statement by his spokesperson, Bayo Onanuga, that he applauded the security agents for their efforts in securing the freedom of all the victims abducted by the terrorists.
