TERRORISTS ABDUCT 14 ISLAMIC SCHOOL STUDENTS IN NIGER NEWS

Suspected terrorists have abducted 14 students of an Islamic school and their teacher in Tungan-Bako village, Pandogari district, Rafi Local Government Area of Niger State, triggering renewed concerns over insecurity in rural communities.

The incident occurred on Saturday, October 31, 2026, when the students were reportedly helping their Islamic teacher, popularly known as a Mallam, harvest maize on his farm.

Armed men reportedly invaded the area and seized the students alongside their teacher, taking them to an unknown destination.

The Niger State Police Command confirmed the abduction, clarifying that 14 students were taken rather than the 50 initially reported in some accounts.

Police spokesperson, SP Wasiu Abiodun, said preliminary information indicated that the victims were students of an Islamiyya school who had accompanied their teacher to the farm.

He disclosed that joint security teams had commenced rescue operations to secure their release, adding that further developments would be communicated to the public.

The incident has attracted criticism from opposition figures in the state. Jonathan Vatsa, spokesperson for the Social Democratic Party governorship candidate, accused Governor Mohammed Bago's administration of failing to adequately address the worsening security situation.

Vatsa also expressed concern over the alleged shortage of operational vehicles and essential equipment for security agencies, arguing that more practical measures were needed to protect residents.

However, the state government has maintained that it is working with security agencies and other stakeholders to tackle insecurity and rescue abducted residents.

The latest incident adds to growing concerns over attacks on farming communities, schools and rural settlements in Niger State.

Residents are hoping that ongoing security operations will lead to the safe return of the abducted students and their teacher.

Sources: PUNCH, Channels Television and Premium Times.