Kebbi State Governor, Nasir Idris, has warned that certain “enemies of Nigeria” are actively working to undermine the nation’s democracy.
The governor made the remark on Monday while receiving the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Dr. Abbas Tajudeen, who led a delegation to the Government House in Birnin Kebbi on a sympathy visit.
Idris expressed deep concern over the growing wave of abductions nationwide, insisting that more decisive steps must be taken to curb the crisis.
He also demanded a thorough investigation into the sudden withdrawal of military personnel shortly before bandits invaded the Government Girls’ Comprehensive Secondary School in Maga, Danko-Wasago Local Government Area.
According to the News Agency of Nigeria, soldiers assigned to the school reportedly pulled out at 3:00 a.m., and the attackers struck 45 minutes later, prompting suspicions of foul play.
“I want to appeal to the National Assembly to invite the military to explain who gave those military officers on duty the order to withdraw.
“This action calls for thorough investigations, because by 3:00a.m. of that fateful day, the military men on duty withdrew, while, by 3:45a.m., the bandits came in and perpetrated their evil intention,” he revealed.
Idris explained that after receiving intelligence about a planned attack, the state government immediately convened a security meeting.
He noted that security agencies had requested logistical support to deploy personnel, and the government promptly obliged.
He emphasised his administration’s commitment to security, pointing out that the state recently purchased 100 Toyota Hilux vehicles and about 1,000 motorcycles for security agencies to enhance their operations.
The governor called for a comprehensive review of Nigeria’s security framework, lamenting the ease with which bandits travel long distances, often in large groups, without interception.
“What are we doing as a nation?” he asked.
“The house must do something about the security situation in this country, I believe enemies are working to truncate our democracy,” he warned.
Idris assured that both state and federal authorities were working tirelessly to secure the release of the abducted students.
Responding to the Speaker’s appeal to honour the Vice Principal who was killed during the attack, the governor immediately approved that the school be renamed after him.
He also thanked the Speaker for the visit and the donation of N30 million to the families of the two staff members who lost their lives.
In his remarks, Dr. Abbas Tajudeen said the House was shocked by the incident, describing Kebbi as historically one of the most peaceful states.
“We are here to show you our love, our concern over what happened, especially when you and Mr President are doing all you can to fix this country.
“I believe Mr President is doing his best to protect the lives and property of Nigerians,” he said.
The Speaker urged a fresh, innovative approach to tackling the persistent security challenges.
He added that, following recent attacks in Kebbi, Kwara, and Niger states, the House had set aside Tuesday’s plenary for an in-depth discussion on national security, with the aim of identifying practical solutions.
He noted that the session will have in attendance the U.S. Ambassador to Nigeria and other foreign envoys.
