The Kebbi State Government has confirmed that none of the 24 schoolgirls recently freed after an abduction from Maga were sexually molested. The announcement came during their handover to parents at Government House in Birnin Kebbi. Officials praised the joint efforts of national and state leaders for the successful rescue.
On Wednesday, November 26, 2025, the Kebbi State Government officially confirmed that the 24 schoolgirls abducted from Government Girls’ Comprehensive Secondary School in Maga had not been sexually abused during their captivity. Dr. Halima Bande, the State Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, made the statement during a formal handover ceremony at Government House in Birnin Kebbi, where the girls were reunited with their parents and guardians.
The abduction occurred in the early hours of Monday, November 17, 2025, when terrorists attacked the school and took away 25 students. The rescue operation, completed about eight days later, freed 24 of them, with medical reports verifying that all were safe and free from any form of sexual molestation.
Dr. Bande expressed relief and gratitude, stating, “We are jubilating as we hand over these freed girls to their parents.” She added, “We give all glory to Allah, who made it possible for our leaders to actualise the rescue of these girls.” The commissioner highlighted the trauma felt just days earlier, noting, “About eight days ago we were thrown into trauma because these girls were nowhere to be found.”
She credited the success to the collaboration between President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Kebbi State Governor Nasir Idris, who was present at the handover. Bande also commended parents, religious leaders, traditional institutions, and other stakeholders for their contributions to the mission.
This incident underscores ongoing security challenges in the region, though the positive outcome has brought some solace to affected families.