Babagana Zulum, the governor of Borno state has assured residents of Mussa community in Askira/Uba LGA that efforts are underway to rescue 48 schoolchildren abducted by suspected terrorists.
The governor gave the assurance on Tuesday during a sympathy visit to Uba town, where he met with parents of the victims and community leaders following the attack.
Addressing residents, Zulum expressed concern over the incident and sympathised with the Emir of Uba, affected families and members of the community.
He said the federal government, security agencies and the Borno state government were working together to secure the release of the abducted children.
“I want to convey my deepest sympathy to the Emir of Uba, parents of the abducted children and the entire people of the Uba Emirate over the recent unfortunate incident,” the governor said.
He added that the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, alongside the Nigerian armed forces and the state government, would do everything possible to ensure the children return safely.
Zulum also commended security operatives for their swift response, noting that senior military and police officers had already been deployed to strengthen security in the affected communities.
According to him, additional security reinforcements have been sent to Askira, Uba and surrounding areas to prevent further attacks.
The governor appealed to the abductors to release the children, describing them as innocent minors who deserve care and protection from their families.
He also urged residents across the state to continue praying for peace and the safe return of the victims, especially during the first 10 days of Dhul Hijjah.
Speaking during the visit, Ali Ibn Isma’ila Mamza II, the Emir of Uba said the abduction occurred on Friday, May 15, in Mussa community.
The monarch disclosed that the victims include 37 primary school pupils, six secondary school students and five other residents.
Chinapi Amanja, a community representative, Chinapi thanked the governor for visiting the area and acknowledged the deployment of security personnel to support rescue efforts and restore calm in the community.