Daring Escape: Schoolgirl Flees Mass Kidnapping in Nigeria

A schoolgirl escaped after being kidnapped with 24 others by gunmen from a dormitory in northwestern Nigeria. Despite intensified rescue efforts by security forces and local hunters, the remaining students are still missing. No group has claimed responsibility, although local gangs are suspected.

A schoolgirl in northwestern Nigeria has managed a daring escape after being abducted alongside 24 other students from a dormitory, the school's principal confirmed to The Associated Press. The incident occurred at the Government Girls Comprehensive Secondary School in Kebbi state's Maga town, with security forces and local hunters now involved in rescue efforts.

The kidnapping took place before dawn on Monday when armed assailants overran the school's premises after a gunfire exchange with police, resulting in the death of a staff member. While successful in taking 25 students, one managed to escape soon after the raid, while another returned late Monday."

Rescue operations have been intensified, but no claims of responsibility have been made yet. Analysts suspect local gangs, often involved in kidnappings for ransom. Kebbi Governor Nasir Idris and Nigeria's Chief of Army Staff have pledged to rescue the pupils. Families remain distraught, with many angry and frustrated over the lack of immediate responses.

(With inputs from agencies.)