Wife of Kebbi State Governor, Hajiya Zainab Idris, has appealed to parents not to withdraw their children from school following the recent abduction of 24 students from Government Comprehensive Girls Secondary School, GGCSS, Maga, in Danko/Wasagu Local Government Area.
Speaking during the reunification ceremony at the Government House in Birnin-Kebbi, the first lady expressed relief that none of the girls were harmed during the nine days they were held captive. She added that the students had undergone medical checkups and urged parents to ensure they continue their education.
“You must not deny them education because of this incident. They must go back. Government is already putting in place necessary measures for their safety,” Hajiya Zainab Idris said.
She also noted that the people of Kebbi had been deeply worried since the abduction and praised the swift rescue within one week.
Governor Nasir Idris described the abduction as a distressing episode for parents, the state, and his administration. He commended the security personnel for their prompt response, which prevented further trauma, and emphasized the state’s commitment to the safety of students.
The students, who were abducted on Monday, November 17, were rescued from the Bagega forest in Anka Local Government Area of Zamfara State on Tuesday and reunited with their parents at the Government House on Wednesday by the governor and his wife.
Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Halimatu Bande, described the ordeal as a trying period for the state and expressed gratitude to security agencies and residents who supported the rescue efforts.
Parents of the rescued students also expressed their appreciation to Governor Idris, security agencies, religious leaders, and community volunteers for their roles in ensuring the safe return of their children.