Aggrieved parents of kidnapped students of the Federal Government College, Birnin Yauri, Kebbi State, have accused Atiku Bagudu, the state governor of reneging on his promise to rescue their children eleven months after their abduction.
Speaking to BBC Hausa Sunday evening, one of the parents said: “Atiku Bagudu who promised to save the children has completely stopped responding to our calls.” This came after the governor vowed to lead a search and rescue mission to the forest.
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Eleven months later, WikkiTimes learned that 14 of the students are still being held by the terrorists while all their male colleagues have been released.
The parent worried about the incessant rain falls as the kidnappers hold on to their children. Bandits loyal to a kingpin, Dogo Gide, on June 17, 2021, Invaded the school, kidnapping about 80 students and five teachers, according to Daily Trust.
Seven months later, the state government disclosed that 30 out of the students including a teacher were freed. Hitherto, 27 students and three teachers were reportedly released. Though, Daily Trust reported that another 13 girls among the abducted students were forcefully “married off” to the terrorists after spending eight months in captivity.
READ: CSOs Call For More Security Outposts In Kebbi Schools
Kidnappings for ransom are almost commonplace in Nigeria, especially in the north. This is one of the reasons why experts say it affects or undermines education in some parts of the north, due to fears of sending a child to school. And another concern is the inability to identify where the problem lies, especially in rescuing hostages or students.
Nigerian authorities have often said they are taking action, but most of the time militant attacks come as a surprise to people when things seem to be getting easier.
