Mass kidnappings from Nigeria schools show "the state does not have control," one expert says
Over 280 students abducted by armed men in Nigeria, causing concerns about government's ability to protect citizens.
- Bilawal Riaz
- 1 min read
Over 280 students, boys and girls aged 8 to 15, were reportedly abducted by armed men from schools in Kaduna, Nigeria, with parents urging the government to pay any ransom demanded for their return. This incident followed another abduction of about 15 children from a school in Sokoto. Recent reports of mass abductions in Borno state have raised concerns about the government’s ability to protect citizens, especially women and children. Kidnappings have been a longstanding issue in Nigeria, with the most notable being the 2014 abduction of schoolgirls in Chibok. Despite promises of security, such incidents continue to occur. The government faces criticism for its handling of security and the well-being of displaced people in camps.