50 Children Escape Abduction From Niger State Catholic School

By HAUWA MAGANA

FIFTY of the more than 300 students abducted from St. Mary’s Catholic Primary and Secondary Schools in Papiri, Niger State, have escaped and reunited with their parents, the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) reported on Sunday.

The pupils fled between Friday and Saturday, according to Daniel Atori, media aide to CAN Chairman Most Rev. Bulus Dauwa Yohanna, who is also the Catholic Bishop of Kontagora Diocese. Atori confirmed that 141 pupils were not taken during the attack, leaving 236 students, 14 secondary students, and 12 staff members still in captivity.

“While we are relieved about the escape of these 50 children, we continue to pray and collaborate with security agencies for the safe return of the remaining abductees,” he said.

The abduction occurred when terrorists attacked the school in Agwara Local Government Area. Initial reports indicated 227 people were taken, but verification by CAN showed a total of 315 victims, including 303 students and 12 teachers. Some students were recaptured after trying to flee, highlighting the ongoing risk to the remaining victims.

Authorities and the school management continue to work with security operatives, community leaders, and government officials to secure the release of the remaining children.