The Niger state chapter of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) says “227 persons, including teachers and students” were abducted when bandits attacked St. Mary’s Catholic Primary and Secondary Schools in Papiri, Agwara LGA, on Friday morning.
The incident reportedly occurred between 2am and 3am, and the exact number of abductees remained unknown.
However, in a statement on Friday evening, Daniel Atori, the media aide to Bulus Yohanna, chairman of CAN in Niger state, confirmed that “215 pupils and students, including 12 teachers”, were abducted during the attack.
“I have just got back to the village this night after I visited 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,” the statement reads.
“From our record, 215 pupils and students including 12 teachers were abducted by the terrorists.
“It is worthy to note that, during the terrorists attack, some students escaped and parents have started coming for pick up their children as the school has to be shutdown.
“I want to call for on everyone to remain calm and prayerful, and I also want to assure you that we are actively collaborating with security Operatives, community leaders and government authorities for the safe and quick return of all abductees.
“May the Lord grant quick release to those abducted and continue to protect his people from all dangers.”
Earlier, the Niger state government said the school had reopened without clearance after an advisory had directed a temporary shutdown of all boarding schools in the affected area.
The incident comes on the heels of the abduction of 25 female students from Government Girls Secondary School in Maga, Kebbi state.
