By Adewole Kehinde
The abduction of twenty-five innocent schoolgirls from Government Girls Comprehensive Secondary School, Maga, in Danko/Wasagu LGA of Kebbi State is yet another heartbreaking reminder of the cruelty of terrorists who prey on the most vulnerable among us.
This barbaric act deserves the strongest possible condemnation from all well-meaning Nigerians. No parent should ever endure the nightmare of sending a child to school only to be met with terror and despair.
But while the nation mourns and security agencies swing into action, it is deeply disappointing, though not surprising, that Mr Omoyele Sowore, the serial failed presidential candidate of the African Action Congress (AAC), chose this tragic moment to peddle political falsehoods and target the leadership of the Nigeria Police Force.
Sowore alleged that the Inspector General of Police had “not uttered a word” about the Kebbi abduction. This claim is not only baseless but also malicious, clearly designed to score cheap political points rather than contribute meaningfully to national security discourse.
The facts speak differently.
Upon receiving the distressing report that heavily armed bandits stormed the school and abducted the students, the Inspector General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun, immediately directed the Commissioner of Police in Kebbi State to deploy a combined team of police tactical units, military personnel, and vigilantes to the area.
These teams are currently combing suspected bandits’ routes and surrounding forests, working tirelessly to rescue the abducted girls and apprehend the perpetrators of this dastardly act.
This is not the first time IGP Egbetokun has acted swiftly and decisively. Sowore, who thrives on sensationalism rather than verified facts, should be reminded of the IGP’s pivotal role in ensuring the arrest and prosecution of those involved in the Yelwata massacre in Benue State, contrary to the false narrative Sowore desperately tried to sell to the public.
It must also be emphasised that the IGP remains a competent officer, duly and legally appointed by the President in accordance with the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
His record reflects professionalism, collaboration, and a firm commitment to national security.
At a time when the nation needs unity, focus, and collective resolve, what Nigeria does not need is reckless commentary from individuals seeking political relevance through tragedy.
A serious presidential hopeful should not latch onto the suffering of abducted children in an attempt to revive a dwindling political career. Instead, he should join hands with government institutions to confront and defeat the monstrous threat of terrorism. Security, after all, is everyone’s business.
The IGP has reiterated the unwavering determination of the Nigeria Police Force to safeguard lives and property across the country.
What the nation needs now is for members of the public to remain calm, vigilant, and supportive of ongoing security operations. Cheap political publicity helps no one, least of all the abducted schoolgirls whose safe return should be the priority of every patriotic Nigerian.
This is a time for solidarity, not sensationalism. A time for responsibility, not recklessness. And a time to support the men and women risking their lives daily to protect ours.
May the abducted students be rescued safely and reunited with their families, and may Nigeria overcome those who seek to destabilise her peace.
Adewole Kehinde is a public affairs analyst based in Abuja. kennyadewole@gmail.com @kennyadewole
