On January 7 during SKE48 Team KII's performance, it was announced that members Yamada Mizuho and Abiru Riho will be graduating from the group. 

The group's official website posted a comment from both members. Yamada, who will be graduating from the group after January, commented, "It's been 3 years since I joined SKE48. There were a lot of painful times, as well as fun times. During those times, fans would always be supportive. I am filled with feelings of gratitude." Furthermore, she stated, "There are only a few weeks left in January, but during this time, I will properly express my feelings of gratitude to everybody. Until the very end, I hope to smile and finish my activities as SKE48 and as an idol." 

As for Abiru, she is planning on graduating after April. "For the first time in my life I found dreams and goals, besides being an idol. In order to reach those goals and dreams, I decided to take a new road," she explained. She concluded, "There are about 4 months until graduation, so please allow me to convey 6 years worth of gratitude to everyone who has been involved during my time in SKE48. Please support me until the very end."

Source & Image: natalie