The Borno State Government has temporarily shut down Government Day Secondary School in Mussa, Askira/Uba Local Government Area, following the abduction of 42 students and children by suspected Boko Haram insurgents.
As part of emergency security measures, the affected students have been relocated to Government Secondary School in Uba under the state’s Safe Schools Initiative.
The Commissioner for Education, Science, Technology and Innovation, Lawan Wakilbe, announced the decision during a visit to the community on Monday. A statement released on Tuesday by Governor Babagana Zulum’s spokesperson, Dauda Illiya, explained that the relocation was aimed at ensuring the safety of students after the attack.
During the visit, the government delegation first met with the Emir of Uba, Alhaji Ali Ibn Ismaila Mamza II, before proceeding to Mussa community. They were received by the Commanding Officer of the 115 Battalion in Askira, Lt. Col. Ishola Olufisola, alongside parents of the abducted children and community leaders.
Addressing the grieving families, Wakilbe conveyed the sympathy of the state government and assured residents that efforts were ongoing to rescue the victims safely.
He stated that Governor Zulum’s administration remained committed to strengthening security around schools and protecting students across the state.
According to the statement, the temporary closure of the school and relocation of students became necessary to prevent further attacks and allow students to continue their education in a safer environment.
Parents of the abducted children appealed to the government to intensify rescue operations, describing the situation as emotionally devastating for affected families.
Speaking on behalf of the parents, Ishaku Jidaye appreciated the governor’s swift response but urged authorities to secure the immediate release of the victims.
The delegation also visited Dille and Lassa communities to assess security conditions and review safety measures in public schools within the affected areas. Officials directed schools in the region to fully implement all Safe Schools Initiative protocols pending further instructions from the government.
They further inspected several educational facilities, including the ongoing Government Secondary School project in Uvu, High Islamic College in Uba, the wind-damaged Government Day Secondary School in Rumirgo, and Government Secondary School in Uba, where the relocated students are expected to continue their studies.
Other members of the delegation included Askira/Uba Local Government Chairman, Mada Saidu; Education Secretary of Askira/Uba LGA, Fatsuma Adamu Askira; Education Secretary of Gwoza LGA, Dr. Habila Putaya; Zonal Director of Education for Uba Zone, Tijjani Saleh Chul; and Hon. Luka Apagu.
The abduction occurred on May 16 when suspected Boko Haram fighters reportedly attacked Mussa Primary and Junior Secondary School. According to Senator Ali Ndume, who represents Borno South, the victims included four secondary school students, 28 primary school pupils, and 10 other children taken from nearby homes.
