At least 227 students and teachers were abducted by suspected terrorists from St. Mary’s Catholic Primary and Secondary Schools in Papiri, Agwara Local Government Area of Niger State.
The Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Niger State chapter, Most Rev. Bulus Dauwa Yohanna, confirmed the abduction, emphasising that the association is working closely with government authorities and security agencies to ensure the safe return of the victims, reports Vanguard.
A statement signed by Daniel Atori, Media Aide to the CAN Chairman, said: “I have just returned to the village after visiting the school and meeting with parents. I assured them that we are actively collaborating with security operatives, community leaders, and government authorities to secure the safe return of our children.”
According to the statement, 215 pupils and students, along with 12 teachers, were abducted during the attack. Some students managed to escape, and parents have begun collecting their children as the school remains closed.
“At this time, I urge everyone to remain calm and prayerful,” the statement added. “We are doing everything possible to ensure the abducted children and staff are brought back safely and swiftly.”
The attack adds to the growing list of school kidnappings in Nigeria, raising concerns over the security of students and the effectiveness of protective measures in vulnerable areas.
