Fourteen students of an Islamic school have been kidnapped by suspected bandits while helping their teacher harvest maize in Tungan-Bako village, Rafi Local Government Area of Niger State.
The incident happened on Saturday when the gunmen reportedly stormed the farm and took away the students alongside their Mallam.
The Niger State Police Command spokesperson, Wasiu Abiodun, confirmed the abduction on Monday. He dismissed reports claiming that 50 students were taken, insisting that the actual number was 14.
Abiodun said security operatives had begun efforts to rescue the victims.
He said, “On 31/10/2026 at about 12.30pm, suspected bandits invaded Tungan-Bako village via Rafi LGA and abducted some persons working on the farm.
“The report further indicated that the abducted victims were about 14 students of an Islamiya helping their Mallam to harvest maize on the farm before the incident.
“However, joint security rescue efforts are ongoing; further developments will be communicated.”
Meanwhile, Jonathan Vatsa, spokesperson for the Social Democratic Party governorship candidate, has faulted Governor Mohammed Bago over the state’s worsening security situation.
Vatsa accused the governor of paying more attention to the 2027 governorship election than protecting residents. He also claimed security agencies lacked vehicles and other equipment to tackle attacks.
“The security agencies in the state lack operational vehicles and other necessary equipment to confront the situation.
“The government is only there to issue statements either condemning every attack or condole with the people over the death of their loved ones by gunmen without any cogent step to address the situation,” Vatsa said.
