Armed bandits have abducted 14 students of an Islamiyya school alongside their teacher in Tungan-Bako village, located within the Pandogari district of Rafi Local Government Area in Niger State
According to reports, the incident occurred on Saturday, October 31, 2026, when the students were assisting their teacher, known locally as a Mallam, in harvesting maize on his farm. The armed men reportedly stormed the location around 12:30 PM and whisked the victims away to an unknown destination.
Addressing conflicting initial reports that suggested up to 50 students had been captured, the Niger State Police Command Public Relations Officer, SP Wasiu Abiodun, clarified that the exact number of abducted students stands at 14.
In an official statement issued on Tuesday, Abiodun confirmed the details of the attack and assured the public that a joint security operation has been launched to rescue the victims safely. “Joint security rescue efforts are ongoing, and further developments will be communicated,” the police spokesperson stated.
The latest abduction has sparked sharp political debate across the state regarding the administration’s handling of security challenges
Jonathan Vatsa, spokesperson for the Social Democratic Party (SDP) governorship candidate, severely criticized Governor Umaru Bago. Vatsa accused the state government of prioritizing political activities ahead of the 2027 elections at the expense of residents’ safety. He also pointed to a lack of essential equipment and operational vehicles for security personnel, arguing that the government limits its response to routine condemnations and condolences without enacting preventative measures.
Defending the administration, Niger State Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Obed Nuhu Nana, stated that Governor Bago’s government is mobilizing every available resource. He emphasized that the state is actively cooperating with security agencies and stakeholders to secure the release of the abducted individuals and restore lasting peace to vulnerable communities.
