Suspected armed fighters have abducted a number of candidates sitting for the National Examinations Council (NECO) examinations in Nigeria’s north-eastern Borno State, prompting security agencies to launch a search operation.
The victims were reportedly travelling to their examination centre when they were intercepted and taken away by the assailants in an attack that has raised fresh concerns over the security of students in conflict-affected communities.
Police authorities confirmed the incident and said a coordinated manhunt is underway to rescue the abducted candidates and apprehend those responsible.
The latest abduction underscores the persistent insecurity in parts of north-eastern Nigeria, where armed groups have continued to target civilians despite ongoing military operations aimed at restoring stability.
Authorities have urged residents to remain calm and cooperate with security agencies as efforts intensify to secure the victims’ safe return.
