Fifty pupils abducted from St. Mary’s Primary and Secondary Schools, Papiri, in Agwara Local Government Area, Niger State, have successfully escaped from captivity and been reunited with their families.
The school came under attack in the early hours of Friday when armed men shot a security guard and abducted over 200 students and 13 staff members.
The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) Chairman in Niger State, Most Rev. Bulus Dauwa Yohanna, who is also the proprietor of the school, confirmed in a statement issued on Sunday, November 23, that the 50 pupils escaped on Saturday and are now safely back with their parents.
Rev. Yohanna said the school operates both boarding and day sessions. Out of 430 primary pupils, 377 are boarders and 53 are day pupils. Apart from the 50 who escaped, 236 pupils, three children of staff, 14 secondary students, and 12 staff members remain in the custody of the abductors.
He appealed for calm and continued prayers, noting that authorities, community leaders, and security agencies are working together to ensure the safe release of the remaining victims.
“We urge everyone to remain calm and prayerful as we collaborate with security agencies, community leaders, and government authorities to ensure the safe and swift return of all abductees,” Rev. Yohanna added.
