Intelligence Sources Reveal Reasons Behind Recent School Kidnappings

Intelligence briefings have linked the recent kidnapping of schoolchildren in parts of Kebbi and Niger States to the fallout from a major military operation that led to the death of a notorious armed-group commander known as Babangida. Security officials say the commander, a key figure under the influential bandit leader Dogo Gideh, died on November 18 after suffering injuries during a Nigerian Air Force strike near Kurebe in Niger State, where several fighters were also neutralised

Security contacts told reporters that many communities along the Shiroro riverside axis have been quietly celebrating the confirmation of his death, describing it as a long-awaited breakthrough against groups that have terrorised the region for years. However, officers warn that the celebration has been overshadowed by swift retaliation. According to intelligence gathered in the days following the airstrike, loyalists of the slain commander are believed to have organised the recent abductions as a show of force aimed at proving their faction remains active despite heavy losses.

Local leaders from Kwaki, Buresidna, Chukuba, Buwidna, Kuchidna, Banda, Shalupe and neighbouring villages reportedly travelled to Palleli on November 19 to visit the mother of Gideh, who was seen grieving over Babangida’s death. Their visit, sources said, underscored the commander’s influence within the network and the likely internal tensions that his killing has now triggered.

A senior intelligence officer, who requested anonymity, described the operation that took out the commander as a “major setback” to the network’s structure. He added, however, that the group may attempt additional reprisals, particularly targeting isolated communities, schools and security personnel. He said agencies across the region have been placed on heightened alert, and rescue efforts for the abducted students are being intensified.

Residents in affected communities say the commander’s death has revived hope that the region may finally see a drop in violent attacks, even as they remain wary of possible revenge missions. Military authorities have assured that both ground and air operations will continue across the North-West and North-Central until the fighting groups’ ability to operate is significantly weakened.