Residents of Borno State are criticising President Bola Tinubu’s federal government for its silence and perceived neglect following the abduction of 42 students at Mussa School.

After the attack, families and community members reported a lack of communication and updates from the government. The silence has only deepened fears and disrupted education in an already vulnerable region.

Comparisons are being drawn to a similar kidnapping incident in Oyo State, where the federal government dispatched a high-level delegation for a prompt intervention. Many residents are asking why the response has been so different this time.

Civil Society leader Abubakar Suleiman called on authorities to ramp up search efforts and engage more directly with affected families to reassure them of the children’s safe return.

Analysts have criticised the unequal government response, raising broader concerns about the safety of rural schools across Nigeria. Local leaders are urging the government to show the same urgency it displayed in Oyo.

Governor Zulum has visited the site and promised intensified efforts to rescue the victims.