In a rare piece of positive news following the recent terrorist attack at St. Mary’s Private Catholic Primary and Secondary Schools in Papiri, Niger State, 50 out of the abducted pupils have escaped and reunited with their parents.
The escape occurred between Friday and Saturday, days after suspected terrorists abducted 303 pupils and students from the school. Officials confirmed the safe return after contacting and visiting some of the parents.
According to Bulus Yohanna, chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in Niger state, proprietor of the school, and Catholic Bishop of Kontagora diocese, 253 individuals remain in captivity, including 236 pupils, three children of staff, 14 secondary students, and 12 staff members.
In the primary section, out of 430 pupils, 377 are boarders while 53 are non-boarders. Aside from the 50 pupils who escaped, 141 primary pupils were not abducted during the attack.
While welcoming the return of the 50 pupils, Yohanna called on Nigerians to continue praying for the safe release of all remaining victims.
He assured that the school is actively collaborating with security operatives, community leaders, government authorities, and other stakeholders to secure the release of the abductees.
“May the Lord grant quick release to those abducted and continue to protect His people from all dangers,” he said, urging calm and faith as rescue efforts continue.
