Stephen Ukandu, Umuahia
One hundred of the remaining 250 schoolchildren abducted in Niger State have regained their freedom after several weeks in captivity.
Local sources confirmed the development on Sunday evening, a claim corroborated by the United Nations. The children, abducted from St. Mary’s Catholic School in Papiri, are expected to be handed over to local government officials on Monday.
Presidential Spokesman, Sunday Dare, also confirmed the release to AFP.
The fate of about 165 students and staff still being held by the kidnappers remains unclear.
Recall that during the November attack, 315 persons — comprising 303 students and 12 teachers — were seized. About 50 pupils managed to escape within the first 24 hours and were reunited with their families, leaving 265 victims in captivity.
Kidnapping for ransom has been on the rise, particularly in northern Nigeria in recent times.
