The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in Niger State reports that 50 students abducted from St Mary’s Private Catholic Primary and Secondary Schools in Papiri, Agwara LGA, have escaped from their captors and safely reunited with their families.
In a statement, CAN Niger Chairman and Catholic Bishop of Kontagora Diocese, Bulus Dauwa Yohanna, said the students escaped between Friday and Saturday and quietly returned home instead of going back to school.
The school confirmed the news by contacting parents, verifying that out of 430 pupils (377 boarders, 53 day students), 141 were not taken, and 236 remain in captivity along with 3 staff children and 14 secondary students.
Yohanna appealed for calm and prayers as authorities work with security agencies to secure the release of those still held.
“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,” he said.