The Niger State chapter of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has confirmed that at least 227 pupils and teachers were abducted during Friday’s attack on a Catholic school in Papiri, Agwara Local Government Area.
The victims include 215 children and 12 staff members, making it one of the largest school kidnappings recorded in recent years and the biggest since the mass abduction of Islamic school pupils in Tegina.
CAN Chairman Visits Community, Meets Shocked Parents
Speaking late Friday night after visiting the affected community, the state CAN Chairman, Most Rev. Bulus Dauwa Yohanna, described the situation as devastating.
He said he met with frightened and heartbroken parents who had gathered at the now-deserted school premises.
“I have just got back to the village this night 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,” Yohanna said.
He confirmed that some pupils managed to escape during the attack and have since reunited with their families.
“During the terrorists’ attack, some students escaped, and parents have started coming to pick up their children as the school has now been shut down,” he added.
Appeal for Calm and Prayers
Yohanna appealed for calm, urging residents to remain hopeful as efforts to rescue the abductees continue.
“I want to call on everyone to remain calm and prayerful. 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,” he said.
