The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in Niger State says at least 50 students abducted from St. Mary’s Private Catholic Primary and Secondary Schools in Papiri, Agwara LGA, have successfully escaped from captivity.
In a statement issued on Sunday, CAN Chairman in Niger State and Catholic Bishop of Kontagora Diocese, Bulus Dauwa Yohanna, confirms that the students regained their freedom between Friday and Saturday and quietly reunited with their families.
He explained that the escaped pupils were unable to return directly to the school but were traced after officials reached out to parents and conducted follow-up visits.
“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.
Providing further clarification, Bishop Yohanna noted: “In the primary section, out of 430 pupils, 377 are boarders and 53 are day students. Aside from the 50 pupils who escaped and returned home, we still have 141 pupils who were not taken.”
He added that a total of 253 individuals remain in captivity, including 236 pupils, three children belonging to staff members, 14 secondary school students, and 12 staff members.
The statement urges the public to remain calm and continue praying as efforts to secure the safe release of the remaining abductees intensify.
“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,” it added.
