Nigeria school security under threat as Boko Haram attacks persist and false kidnapping rumors spread

In Borno State, suspected Boko Haram/ISWAP fighters set fire to a primary and a day secondary school in Kautikari village, Chibok local government area on June 14, 2026. No casualties were reported, but residents fled into the bush for safety. A local source questioned the motive, saying, “I wonder why they set ablaze the Primary School and Day Secondary School.” Governor Babagana Zulum highlighted ongoing insecurity as his greatest challenge since taking office.

Separately, a claim that gunmen abducted a principal and students in Kano State in early June 2026 was investigated by Africa Check and found to have no supporting evidence. Footage cited in the claim was likely recorded in southwestern Nigeria, with speakers using Yoruba, and no credible reports of such an abduction existed. The fact-check notes a previous unrelated kidnapping of 39 students and seven teachers in Oyo State in May 2026, confirming the Kano incident was fabricated.