CSOS - ALLEGE PLOT TO UNDERMINE EDUCATION IN KEBBI WITH SCHOOLGIRLS KIDNAP

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By: Adeleke Barakat

The Coalition of Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) in Kebbi has condemned the recent abduction of schoolgirls in the state, describing it as a calculated move aimed at sabotaging educational progress in the region.

The group’s chairman, Ibrahim Ngaski, stated this during a press briefing in Birnin Kebbi on Monday.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that suspected bandits attacked Government Girls’ Comprehensive Secondary School, Maga, on Nov. 17, during which 25 schoolgirls were abducted.

“This cruel attack is a direct assault on the safety, education, and future of our children.

“We strongly condemn the abduction and the violence inflicted on these innocent girls and their families.

“Education is a fundamental right, and no child should ever have to pursue their dreams under the shadow of fear,” the chairman stated.

Ngaski urged the government to intensify search-and-rescue efforts to ensure the safe return of all abducted students and others still in captivity. He also appealed for strengthened security around schools and communities.

He added, “All boarding schools located in remote or high-risk areas across the state should be relocated to safer zones to prevent future occurrences.

“Government should also engage community leaders and other stakeholders to promote dialogue, prevention, peacebuilding, and resilience initiatives across all wards and villages.”

Ngaski further recommended immediate, comprehensive support including psychological assistance for the families of the victims.He also urged the full

implementation of the Safe Schools Initiative, noting that the Kebbi State Government had received World Bank funding for this under the AGILE Project.

Ngaski further urged stronger collaboration with neighbouring states—Sokoto, Zamfara and Niger—particularly in intelligence sharing and safeguarding communities from potential terrorist attacks.

He added, “Continue to support security agencies and local security outfits to help address the security challenges confronting our state.”

The chairman also appealed to the international community, the media and Nigerians at large to stand with the affected families and amplify demands for prompt justice and better protection for children.

He encouraged parents, teachers and community members to remain vigilant and cooperate closely with authorities.

“Let us stand together in denouncing violence and protecting every child’s right to live and learn in safety,” he said.