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New twist as CAN confirms 227 students abducted Papiri school attack
The Niger State chapter of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has confirmed that at least 227 pupils and staff were abducted during Friday’s attack on a Catholic-run school in Papiri, Agwara Local Government Area.
According to CAN, the victims include 215 children and 12 teachers, making it one of the biggest school kidnappings recorded in Nigeria in the last few years and the largest since the abduction of Islamic school pupils in Tegina.
Speaking late Friday after visiting the community, the state CAN Chairman, Most Rev. Bulus Dauwa Yohanna, described the situation as heartbreaking. He said he met parents gathered at the deserted school, many of whom were still overwhelmed by shock and fear.
“I have just returned from the village after visiting the school, where I also met with parents of the children to assure them that we are working with the government and security agencies to ensure our children are rescued and brought back safely,” he said.
Yohanna confirmed that some pupils managed to escape during the attack and have since reunited with their families. He added that the school has now been shut down as parents continue to pick up their children.
He appealed for calm in the community and urged residents to remain prayerful while security personnel and government authorities continue efforts to secure the release of the abducted students and staff.
“I want to call on everyone to remain calm and prayerful. I also want to assure you that we are actively collaborating with security operatives, community leaders and government authorities for the safe and quick return of all abductees,” he said.
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