The Niger State Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Most Rev. Bulus Dauwa Yohanna, has confirmed that 227 pupils and teachers were abducted during Friday’s attack on a Catholic school in Papiri, Agwara Local Government Area.
The mass abduction—215 pupils and 12 teachers—marks the largest kidnapping in the state since the attack on the Islamic school in Tegina several years ago.
Rev. Yohanna, who visited the community on Friday night, said he met with distraught parents and school officials, assuring them that efforts were underway to secure the safe return of the victims.
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“I have just returned from the village after visiting the school,” he said. “I met with parents to assure them that we are working closely with government authorities and security agencies to ensure our children are rescued and brought back safely.”
He added that some pupils managed to escape during the attack, prompting the immediate closure of the school, with parents arriving to pick up their children.
“I want to urge everyone to remain calm and prayerful. We are actively collaborating with security operatives, community leaders, and the government for the safe and speedy return of all abductees,” he said.
