The Niger State chapter of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has confirmed a mass abduction of 227 individuals—including 215 pupils and students, along with 12 teachers— during a violent overnight attack on St. Mary’s Catholic Primary and Secondary Schools in Papiri, Agwara Local Government Area.
According to CAN Chairman, Most Rev. Bulus Dauwa Yohanna, who also serves as the Catholic Bishop of Kontagora Diocese, the assault occurred between 2:00 a.m. and 3:00 a.m. on Friday, November 21, 2025. Armed assailants stormed the school premises, forcing staff and students from their hostels before leading them into the surrounding forest.
Rev. Yohanna disclosed that some students managed to escape, while distraught parents rushed to the school to retrieve their children. The institution has since been shut down indefinitely. He assured families that CAN is working closely with government authorities and security agencies to secure the safe release of the abductees.
“This is a tragic moment for our community,” Yohanna stated, appealing for calm, unity, and prayers. He emphasized that rescue efforts are already underway and urged Nigerians to stand in solidarity with the affected families.
The incident marks one of the largest school kidnappings in Niger State since the Tegina Islamic school attack several years ago
No comments:
Post a Comment