Nigeria, Nov. 22 -- The Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, said the Nigerian Army is interrogating the soldiers who reportedly withdrew from their duty posts before Monday's abduction of 25 schoolgirls at the Government Comprehensive Girls Secondary School, Maga, Danko Wasagu Local Government Area in Kebbi State.

Mr Matawalle arrived in Birnin Kebbi on Friday on the directives of President Bola Tinubu to help secure the release of the abducted schoolgirls.

"The military didn't order their withdrawal; military authorities are investigating the incident," the minister said. "I am confirming to you that soldiers who reportedly withdrew from the school before the attack are in military custody. If they are found wanting, they w...