Boko Haram Attack Leaves Dozens of Students Missing at Borno School
Updated
Updated · The Associated Press · May 15
Boko Haram Attack Leaves Dozens of Students Missing at Borno School
9 articles · Updated · The Associated Press · May 15
Several students were unaccounted for after suspected Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa Province militants attacked a secondary school in Askira-Uba, Borno state, early Friday, police said.
Police said a headcount was still underway and could not yet confirm abductions, saying many students fled during the chaos, while residents reported that dozens had been taken away.
Askira-Uba borders the Sambisa Forest, a longtime militant stronghold, and analysts say armed groups often target schools to demand high ransoms and force government attention.
More than 300 children were seized in two mass school abductions in northern Nigeria last year, underscoring the persistent threat to students in the conflict-hit region.
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Over 400 Schoolchildren Kidnapped in Northern Nigeria: The Mussa School Attack and the Escalating Crisis of Mass Abductions (2025–2026)
Overview
On May 15, 2026, suspected Boko Haram and ISWAP terrorists invaded Mussa Primary and Junior Secondary School, immediately raising grave concerns for the safety of students and staff. The lack of official information and the inability of police to comment highlighted the unfolding crisis and deepened community fear. With no immediate details on casualties or abductions, the attack reflected the severe threat posed by groups known for targeting schools. Efforts were underway to determine the full impact and confirm if anyone was missing, leaving the Mussa community in a state of uncertainty and anxiety.