The Borno State Police Command has confirmed the abduction of 13 girls by suspected Boko Haram insurgents from a farm in Askira/Uba local government area.
The attack occurred on Saturday in Huyim village, sparking a coordinated search and rescue operation.
According to police, the girls were taken while working on a communal farm, a practice where community members gather to help each other with agricultural work.
The attackers are believed to have arrived as the group was harvesting crops.
An elderly woman managed to escape during the incident and provided information to security agencies.
Reports indicate that twelve of the abducted victims are between 15 and 20 years old, while one is over 20.
The abduction has drawn concern from local leaders.
Samaila Abdulaziz Satumari, the Yarima of Uba Emirates Council, described the incident as “heartbreaking,” noting that the victims were crucial to their families’ livelihoods and the community’s food production.
“The attack threatens local agriculture because women form a major part of the farming workforce in Askira/Uba,” Satumari stated.
He urged security agencies to intensify rescue operations and called for strengthened security presence in rural areas.
Deputy Speaker Abdullahi Askira, who represents the constituency, also confirmed the attack.
The Borno State Police Command has reassured the public that a combined team of police, military, and local vigilantes is actively searching for the missing girls.
Police spokesman ASP Nahum Kenneth Daso said further details would be provided as the operation progresses.
