…As Defence Headquarters, DSS launch investigations
By Cool News Nigeria Reporter
Birnin Kebbi, Kebbi State — November 26, 2025
Kebbi State Governor, Mohammed Nasir Idris, has alleged that military personnel deployed to protect the Government Girls Comprehensive Secondary School, Maga, in Danko-Wasagu Local Government Area, were withdrawn barely an hour before armed terrorists launched a midnight attack that led to the abduction of 25 schoolgirls.
Speaking in Birnin Kebbi, the governor described the incident as “deeply suspicious” and possibly “sabotage,” revealing that the Department of State Services (DSS) had earlier issued credible intelligence alerting security agencies of an imminent attack on the school.
“The timing raises serious questions. Who authorized the withdrawal of troops? Why would soldiers leave their post at such a critical time?” Governor Idris queried.
According to him, the DSS had provided actionable intelligence, after which he convened an emergency security meeting. The military reportedly assured him that troops would be stationed at the school overnight. However, residents woke up to news that the soldiers left around 3:00 a.m. The terrorists attacked at about 3:45 a.m.
Defence, DSS Open Joint Investigation
The Defence Headquarters confirmed that it has commenced a full review of troop movements, including the chain of command responsible for the alleged withdrawal. It said any redeployment must have been based on “operational intelligence assessments.”
In addition, the Kebbi State Government has set up a special investigative panel led by the DSS to determine whether the withdrawal was caused by miscommunication, negligence, or a deliberate compromise.
Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Waidi Shaibu, has also ordered intensified search-and-rescue efforts, directing troops to “act decisively and professionally” on all intelligence leads.
Security Experts Raise Red Flags
Security analysts who spoke to Cool News Nigeria warn that the allegations, if proven, strike at the heart of Nigeria’s deteriorating security structure.
Dr. Aisha Bello, a retired military intelligence officer, said the timeline indicates more than a routine lapse.
“With credible threat intelligence, troop protection must be consistent. Withdrawing shortly before the attack is operationally and morally indefensible,” she said.
Professor Umar Sidi of the University of Abuja stated that the pattern “aligns with possible internal sabotage.”
“When troops exit just before an assault, it raises concerns about complicity. Such gaps embolden bandits,” he noted.
However, retired Colonel Michael Eze urged caution, saying the incident could also stem from “miscommunication or poor judgment.”
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The Girls Return — But Questions Remain
President Bola Tinubu has welcomed the safe return of the 24 rescued girls and directed security agencies to intensify efforts to secure others still in captivity.
Local residents told Cool News Nigeria that gunshots were heard in the early hours before the school was breached.
A resident, Amina Garba, said:
“I woke up around 3 a.m. to the sound of gunfire. By the time we arrived at the school, the attackers had already forced their way in.”
Another resident, Bala Magaji, confirmed that soldiers were seen earlier that evening.
“Troops were here the night before. They even interacted with some students. But before dawn, they were gone. We don’t understand why they left when there was a security alert.”
What This Means for Nigeria’s Anti-Terrorism Efforts
Security analysts warn that incidents like this severely weaken public confidence in the Nigerian security apparatus.
Professor Sidi said:
“If internal complicity exists within the system, then Nigeria is fighting terrorism with compromised structures. It becomes impossible to protect soft targets like schools.”
He added that unresolved questions about alleged ransom payments during previous rescue operations worsen public mistrust.
Dr. Bello shared similar concerns:
“If ransom was paid, it sets a dangerous precedent. Without systemic reform, this cycle will repeat endlessly.”
A Nation Demands Answers
Governor Idris’s allegation that soldiers pulled out minutes before the attack has sparked nationwide outrage and placed intense scrutiny on Nigeria’s counter-insurgency operations.
The ongoing investigations by the DSS and Defence Headquarters are expected to determine whether the withdrawal was a tragic operational failure or something far more troubling.
For now, one question hangs over the nation:
Is the military truly protecting Nigerians — or leaving them dangerously exposed?
Cool News Nigeria will continue to follow developments as the probe unfolds.
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