Stephen Ukandu, Umuahia
Fifty students abducted from St. Mary’s Private Catholic Primary and Secondary Schools, Papiri, in Agwara Local Government Area of Niger State, have escaped from captivity.
The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), which announced the development on Sunday, said the children regained their freedom between Friday and Saturday.
Niger State CAN Chairman and Catholic Bishop of Kontagora Diocese, Bulus Yohanna, said the pupils “quietly reunited with their families” after fleeing from their abductors.
According to him, the students who escaped were unable to return to the school immediately, prompting officials to contact parents to confirm their safety.
“The pupils escaped between Friday and Saturday and have reunited with their parents as they could not return to the school after they escaped,” the statement read.
“We were able to ascertain this when we decided to contact and visit some parents.”
Providing updated figures, Yohanna explained that the school has 430 pupils in the primary section, of which 377 are boarders and 53 are day students.
“Currently, aside from the 50 pupils that escaped and have returned home, we have 141 pupils who were not taken away.
“As it stands now, we have 236 pupils, another three children belonging to our staff, 14 secondary students — making a total of 253 children — along with 12 members of staff still with the abductors.”
He appealed for calm and continued prayers as efforts intensify to secure the release of the remaining hostages.
“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 added.
