,,,,,50 of 56 Schools Seized in Zakka.
By correspondent in Katsina.
Zakka District in Katsina State is grappling with growing insecurity that has significantly affected education, livelihoods, and everyday life.
According to the Zakka Transformation Forum, a local advocacy group, more than 250 residents have reportedly lost their lives and over 600 have been abducted over the past 15 months.
In a recent appeal to the state government, the Forum disclosed that 50 out of 56 public schools in the district are currently non-operational, as they have been taken over by criminal elements.
According to it,only six schools are still functioning, adding that even those lucky schools still face severe challenges.
The Forum expressed concern that this situation could leave many children without access to basic education.
“This is a deeply troubling time for our community. “Since November 2023, hundreds of families have been affected by attacks and kidnappings. Yet, we continue to hope for swift government intervention to restore peace and stability,”the Forum stated.
The forum noted that once a thriving area known for agriculture, trade, and livestock farming, Zakka District is now struggling under the weight of insecurity,a development it regrets has disrupted access to healthcare, education, and other essential services.
On the recent incident where six members of a family recently lost their lives, the Forum described it as a tragic error and called for improved coordination between security forces and local communities.
“In a place where children now recognize the sound of gunfire, we must come together to find peaceful solutions and protect our future generation,” the Forum added.
The group also called on Senator Abdulaziz Yar’adua and Governor Dikko Umaru Radda to fulfill earlier promises to improve security infrastructure, including the deployment of personnel and protective equipment.
“We are not giving up hope, we urge the government to prioritize the safety and development of Zakka District before the situation worsens,”the Forum said.
Edited by Dada Ahmed.
