Borno closes school where terrorists abducted 42 children

The Borno State Government has temporarily closed and relocated Government Day Secondary School, Mussa, in Askira/Uba Local Government Area following the abduction of 42 students by suspected insurgents. The decision was announced by Commissioner for Education, Science, Technology, and Innovation Lawan Wakilbe during a visit to the community on Monday, part of the state’s ongoing response to the May 16 incident. The abduction involved four students from the secondary school, 28 primary pupils, and 10 children taken from their homes, according to Senator Muhammade Ndume, representing Borno South. Wakilbe met with parents, community leaders, and military officials, including Lt. Col. Ishola Olufisola of the 115 Battalion, to discuss rescue efforts and security measures. As an immediate safety measure, students from the closed school will continue their education at Government Secondary School, Uba. Wakilbe also directed a full assessment of security conditions in nearby schools, including Dille and Lassa communities, and ordered the implementation of the Safe Schools Initiative across affected areas. During the visit, the delegation inspected ongoing school projects, such as the Government Secondary School, Uvu, and evaluated boarding facilities at Government Secondary School, Uba. The delegation included local government officials, education secretaries, and zonal education directors, all working to ensure the safety and relocation of students. Governor Babagana Umara Zulum had previously visited the community on May 19, reassuring residents of the government’s commitment to securing the students’ safe return. Parents, represented by Mr. Ishaku Jidaye, commended the governor’s swift response while urging intensified efforts to release the abducted children.