The Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, raises fresh concerns about Nigeria’s worsening security situation, saying Niger State now stands at the center of dangerous threats, including school attacks, community displacement, and the rising confidence of criminal groups. According to Mediaplusng.com, the IGP gives this warning during his visit to the state, describing the current moment as “deeply troubling” and demanding a united security front involving government, agencies, traditional rulers, and communities.
He calls the abduction of schoolchildren and teachers from St. Mary’s Catholic School, Papiri, Agwara Local Government Area, one of the saddest incidents in recent months. While celebrating the safe escape of 50 pupils, he stresses that rescuing those still in captivity remains a national duty.
Mediaplusng.com reports that the IGP has already deployed more tactical teams to Niger State and expanded intelligence operations to speed up the rescue mission.
Egbetokun assures that the police will not rest until every child and teacher returns safely. He also praises Governor Umaru Mohammed Bago for his continuous support, calling him a strong partner in the fight against rising insecurity. The IGP vows that attacks on schoolchildren will never be tolerated, describing them as acts aimed at destroying children’s right to education.
Governor Bago: “Even One Missing Child Is Too Many”
Responding, Governor Umaru Bago says Niger State is fully supporting the rescue operations and is working to confirm the full number of missing pupils. He explains that the DSS has opened a registration desk for parents, and as of Sunday, 14 families have formally reported their missing children. Despite conflicting information from the school, church, and education ministry, he insists that the priority is recovering every child, not assigning blame.
Governor Bago says tactical teams deployed by the IGP are already making progress, expressing hope that more recoveries will be recorded soon. He calls for unity, calm, and prayers, urging Nigerians to put aside political differences and focus on protecting the nation’s future. He also thanks the IGP and appreciates President Bola Tinubu for his support toward strengthening security in Niger State.
