Fifty of the more than 300 pupils abducted from St. Mary Catholic Primary and Secondary Schools in Papiri, Agwara Local Government Area of Niger State have escaped from captivity and returned home.
Their escape was disclosed in a statement issued to journalists by the Media Aide to the Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in Niger State, Most Rev. Bulus Dauwa Yohanna, and the proprietor of the school, Daniel Atori.
According to the statement, the children regained their freedom between Friday and Saturday and successfully reunited with their parents.
Most Rev. Yohanna described the development as “a significant relief,” noting that the return of the 50 children brings renewed hope to families still waiting for news of their loved ones.
“We are grateful that these children found their way back safely,” he said. “We urge the public to continue to pray fervently for the safe return of all those still in captivity.”
He added that school authorities, community leaders, religious bodies, and government officials are working closely with security agencies “to ensure the swift rescue of the remaining abductees.”
The statement clarified that the primary section of the school has 430 pupils, including 377 boarders and 53 day students.
It further explained that the attackers abducted 236 primary school pupils, 14 secondary school students, 12 staff members, and three children of staff during the assault. A total of 141 pupils were not taken, while 253 persons remain in captivity.
Suleiman Yahaya, Kontangoro
