The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has launched an investigation into allegations that soldiers pulled out of their post shortly before terrorists abducted students from Government Girls Comprehensive Secondary School, Maga, in Kebbi State.

On November 17, armed attackers stormed the school in Danko-Wasagu Local Government Area, killing the vice principal and kidnapping 25 students. The incident has sparked nationwide outrage and raised questions about the circumstances leading up to the assault.

In a statement issued on Sunday in Abuja, Director of Defence Media Operations, Maj.-Gen. Michael Onoja, said the DHQ was aware of remarks attributed to the Kebbi State governor suggesting that troops vacated the area roughly 30 minutes before the terrorists struck.

According to Onoja, military authorities have begun a comprehensive review to establish the precise timeline of troop deployment and movement around the time of the attack. He emphasised that operational decisions are typically driven by intelligence and the evolving security environment, but assured that any identified lapses would be swiftly corrected.

He added that troops are currently pursuing all credible intelligence leads to secure the release of the abducted students. The military, he noted, is working closely with Kebbi State officials, community stakeholders and other security agencies to strengthen the protection of schools and vulnerable populations.

Onoja also voiced deep concern over the Kebbi incident and a similar abduction at St. Mary’s Catholic School in Agwara Local Government Area of Niger State. He condemned both attacks as “heinous” and reiterated that the Armed Forces are fully engaged in coordinated operations aimed at rescuing all victims.

Addressing growing public unease over persistent insecurity in parts of the North, the DHQ assured that the military remains steadfast in its mission to restore peace and stability in affected communities.