The Niger State chapter of the Christian Association of Nigeria – (CAN), has confirmed that 227 persons, including teachers and students, were abducted when armed bandits attacked St. Mary’s Catholic Primary and Secondary Schools in Papiri, Agwara Local Government Area, on Friday morning.
According to reports, the raid occurred between 2 a.m. and 3 a.m., though the exact number of abductees remained unclear in the immediate aftermath. In a statement issued Friday evening, Daniel Atori, media aide to Bulus Yohanna, chairman of CAN in Niger State, clarified that 215 pupils and students, along with 12 teachers, were taken during the attack.
“I have just returned to the village after visiting the school, where I met with parents of the children to assure them that we are working with the government and security agencies to ensure our children are rescued and brought back safely,” Atori stated.
He further noted that some students managed to escape during the attack, and parents have begun retrieving their children, necessitating the temporary closure of the school.
“At this time, I call on everyone to remain calm and prayerful. We are actively collaborating with security operatives, community leaders, and government authorities for the safe and swift return of all abductees,” the statement added. “May the Lord grant quick release to those abducted and continue to protect His people from all dangers.”
Government Response and Context
The Niger State government said the school had reopened without clearance, despite a prior advisory directing the temporary closure of all boarding schools in the affected area. Authorities are reportedly investigating whether the management disregarded security protocols, which may have contributed to the attack.
This incident comes shortly after the abduction of 25 female students from Government Girls Secondary School in Maga, Kebbi State, highlighting a growing and troubling trend of attacks on schools in northern Nigeria. Armed groups increasingly target educational institutions for ransom, putting students, teachers, and communities at significant risk.
A Call for Calm and Vigilance
CAN and local church authorities have called on parents, communities, and the public to remain calm, prayerful, and supportive of rescue efforts. Security forces, in coordination with local leaders, are actively working to secure the release of all abducted students and staffs.
The Papiri abduction underscores the urgent need for enhanced security measures in schools, particularly in vulnerable areas, and the importance of adhering to government advisories to prevent such tragic incidents in the future.
