Fresh fears have emerged in Borno State after suspected Boko Haram insurgents reportedly abducted 42 pupils and residents during an attack on a school in Askira-Uba Local Government Area.

The incident occurred in the early hours of Friday when armed fighters believed to be members of Boko Haram or ISWAP invaded Mussa Primary and Junior Secondary School, causing panic among students and residents.

The abduction was confirmed by Senator Ali Ndume, who said the information was obtained from school authorities and community leaders on Saturday.

Earlier reports from local residents had suggested that at least 20 children were missing following the attack. However, Ndume later provided a more detailed breakdown, placing the total number of abducted persons at 42.

According to the senator, 28 pupils were taken from the primary section of the school, while four students — two males and two females — were abducted from the Government Day Secondary School (GDSS).

He further disclosed that 10 additional children were kidnapped from their homes during the raid, bringing the total number of abducted persons to 42.

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Residents said the attack created widespread fear in the community as many students reportedly fled into nearby bushes to escape the attackers.

One resident, who spoke anonymously, expressed concern that the abducted children could be recruited into insurgent activities if security operatives fail to rescue them quickly.

The Deputy Speaker of the Borno State House of Assembly, Abdullahi Askira, also confirmed the attack but noted that details were initially unclear.

According to him, many students escaped into the bush during the invasion, while authorities continued efforts to determine the exact number of those abducted.

In his statement, Ndume described the attack as horrifying, especially as the pupils were reportedly taken during early morning lessons.

The senator appealed to troops of the Joint Task Force North-East Operation HADIN KAI and other security agencies to intensify rescue operations and ensure the safe return of the abducted children.

He also extended condolences to families affected by recent attacks in Chibok communities and other parts of Southern Borno, where insurgent violence has continued to threaten lives and disrupt education.

The latest abduction has renewed concerns over insecurity in northeastern Nigeria, particularly attacks targeting schools and vulnerable rural communities.

Security experts and community leaders have repeatedly called for stronger protection around schools in conflict-prone areas to prevent further attacks on students and teachers.

The attack comes amid ongoing military operations against insurgent groups in the North-East, where communities continue to face sporadic assaults despite repeated security offensives.