President Bola Tinubu has canceled his planned trip to South Africa for the G20 summit to focus on the escalating security crisis in Nigeria. The decision came after a briefing from the Director General of the Department of State Services (DSS), Oluwatosin Ajayi, on the recent spike in violent attacks and kidnappings.
Among the most shocking incidents was the abduction of 25 schoolgirls from a secondary school in Kebbi State. Gunmen attacked the school before dawn, killing the vice principal and taking the girls in a confrontation with security forces.
In another tragic event, armed assailants raided a church in Kwara State during an evening fellowship, killing three worshippers and abducting at least 38 people, including the pastor. Victims ranged from seven to 64 years old, with a majority being women. The attackers reportedly arrived on motorcycles, spreading panic throughout the community.
In response to the worsening situation, President Tinubu will remain in Nigeria to personally oversee national security efforts, working closely with the DSS and other agencies. Vice President Kashim Shettima has been appointed to represent Nigeria at the G20 summit in his stead.