The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in Niger State has confirmed that the number of pupils and students abducted during Friday’s attack on St. Mary’s Private Primary and Secondary Schools in Papiri, Agwara Local Government Area, has risen to 303, following a fresh verification exercise.
Gunmen had stormed the Catholic school in the early hours of Friday, initially whisking away 215 pupils and 12 teachers.
But, a detailed headcount and follow-up inquiries have now revealed that 88 additional students were also seized, while attempting to escape, bringing the total number of abducted students to 303 and overall victims to 315, including 12 teachers.
Niger State CAN Chairman, Most Rev. Bulus Yohanna, disclosed the updated figures on Saturday through his media aide, Daniel Atori, saying the increase emerged after a “full census” was conducted.
“At present, 303 students, both male and female, and 12 teachers—four female and eight male—remain abducted,” he said.
“We discovered that more students had been taken after parents we initially believed had their children safe came forward to inquire. This prompted the final verification.”
Rev. Yohanna said the school’s total enrolment stands at 629, comprising 430 pupils in the primary section and 199 students in the secondary school.
He also dismissed claims that the school ignored prior security warnings or government directives to shut down.
Read also:
- Police, Military mobilized as search for kidnapped schoolchildren intensifies– Niger CP
- Bandits demand N100 Million ransom for each of 38 abducted worshippers from Eruku Church
- Family raises alarm over unconfirmed kidnapping of Ayotunde Obatuyi near Kabba
“Contrary to rumours, no circular or warning was received from the government or security agencies,” Rev. Yohanna stated.
“This narrative appears to be an afterthought aimed at shifting blame. The school has always complied with security advisories.”
He further clarified that the school is owned by the Catholic Diocese and that no reverend sisters travelled to Abuja in relation to the incident, calling on anyone making such claims to provide evidence.
Rev. Yohanna called for calm and assured the public that the CAN is working closely with security agencies, community leaders, and government authorities to secure the release of the abducted children and teachers.
“We urge everyone to remain prayerful. May the Lord grant their quick release and protect His people from harm,” he said.
