Niger State Attack: 215 students, 12 teachers abducted in midnight raid on Catholic school — CAN

Niger State Attack: 215 Students, 12 teachers abducted in midnight raid on Catholic school — CAN

The Catholic Bishop of Kontagora Diocese, Rev. Bolus Yohanna, has confirmed that 215 students and 12 teachers were abducted during a midnight attack on a Catholic school in Papiri village, Agwara Local Government Area of Niger State.

The attackers reportedly stormed the school between 2 am and 3 am on Friday, breaking into the premises before whisking the victims into the nearby forest.

Speaking after a visit to the community, Bishop Yohanna—who also serves as the Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Niger State—described the grief and anxiety he encountered among parents and school officials.

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“I have just returned from the village after visiting the school, where I also met with parents of the children to assure them that we are working with the government and security agencies to see that our children are rescued and brought back safely,” he said.

The Bishop noted that several students managed to escape during the chaos, prompting parents to rush to the school to retrieve their children after authorities ordered an immediate shutdown of the institution.

“It is worthy to note that during the terrorist attack, some students escaped, and parents have started coming to pick up their children as the school has been shut down,” he added.

Urging calm and unity, Bishop Yohanna called on residents to remain prayerful and hopeful as efforts intensify to locate and rescue the abducted victims.

“I want to call on everyone to remain calm and prayerful, and I also assure you that we are actively collaborating with security operatives, community leaders, and government authorities for the safe and quick return of all abductees,” he said.

Niger State Attack: 215 Students, 12 teachers abducted in midnight raid on Catholic school — CAN