Three students of the Federal Polytechnic, Monguno, Borno State, have been confirmed dead following an attack by suspected Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) terrorists on their temporary hostel.
The incident occurred in the early hours of Sunday at the Federal Government Girls College (FGGC), Monguno, which is currently being used to accommodate students undergoing remedial programmes.
According to a source within the institution, the victims were among students recently issued admission letters. The fatalities reportedly occurred during a chaotic attempt to escape as gunfire erupted within the premises.
Security forces, however, successfully rescued 46 other students during the attack.
Confirming the development, the Acting Military Information Officer of Operation Hadin Kai, Captain Muhammed Goni, disclosed that troops, in collaboration with personnel of the Nigeria Police Mobile Force (MOPOL), foiled an attempted mass abduction at about 1:30 a.m. on July 19, 2026.
He explained that the attackers gained access to the facility with the help of suspected collaborators, intending to abduct students. However, security operatives responded swiftly with coordinated firepower, forcing the terrorists to retreat.
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“The quick response and superior combat capability of the troops stalled the attack and prevented the abduction,” Goni stated.
Despite the successful rescue operation, parts of the school infrastructure were damaged during the exchange of gunfire.
The rescued students were immediately evacuated to Kinnasara Barracks in Monguno, where they received medical attention and were confirmed to be in stable condition.
Goni expressed condolences to the families of the deceased and reassured the public of ongoing efforts to enhance security across the region. He added that investigations are underway to identify and apprehend suspected collaborators, while troops continue to pursue the fleeing attackers.
The military reiterated its commitment to safeguarding educational institutions and maintaining pressure on terrorist groups operating in the North-East.
This incident comes amid growing concerns over attacks on schools, following recent reports of student abductions in other parts of the country.
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