Pantami Condemns Surge in Attacks, Calls for Technology-Driven Security Strategy
Former Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Professor Isa Ali Ibrahim Pantami, has condemned the recent surge in violence across Nigeria, which has seen fatal attacks and mass abductions in Kebbi and Zamfara States. Professor Pantami, who holds the title MajidaÉ—in Daular Usmaniyya, called on government institutions to urgently adopt modern, technology-driven strategies to combat terrorism and protect citizens.
In a statement condemning the attacks, Professor Pantami detailed a series of tragic incidents that have gripped the nation. On November 16th, 2025, the Ameer of the Muslim Students’ Society of Nigeria (MSSN) Kebbi State, Malam Alqasim Uthman Ibrahim, was kidnapped and subsequently killed by terrorist bandits.
The violence escalated the following day when gunmen abducted 25 schoolgirls from Government Girls Comprehensive Secondary School, Maga, in Kebbi State. The attack claimed the life of the school’s Chief Security Officer, Malam Hassan Yakubu Makuku, who died attempting to protect the students. Another school guard sustained injuries during the assault.
Zamfara State witnessed similar brutality on November 18th, 2025, when armed bandits attacked Fegin Baza village, killing three people, including Umaru Moriki, the Sarkin Fadan Moriki. The attackers abducted at least 64 persons, predominantly women and children, while four others suffered gunshot wounds and are currently receiving treatment at Tsafe General Hospital.
The wave of violence extended to other states, with attacks reported at Christ Apostolic Church in Kwara State and another incident in Borno State. Among the casualties was Brigadier General Musa Uba, who died near Damboa in Borno State. Both civilians and security personnel suffered fatalities and injuries in these attacks.
The former minister called on government institutions to adopt modern, technology-driven strategies to apprehend perpetrators, protect citizens, and restore peace across affected regions. He also urged Nigerian citizens to cooperate with security agencies by sharing relevant intelligence to combat terrorism and criminal activities.
Professor Pantami, who holds the national honor CON and the traditional title of Majidadin Daular Usmaniyya, expressed heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and joined other Nigerians in condemning what he described as incessant violence highlighting the harsh reality facing the nation.
He prayed for divine comfort for the bereaved, protection for those abducted, healing for the injured, and strength for security forces working to restore order.
The recent attacks underscore the ongoing security challenges facing Nigeria, particularly in the northern regions where banditry and terrorism continue to threaten civilian populations and disrupt daily life.