The Niger State community is reeling from a devastating mass abduction, as it has been revealed that four children of a local catechist are among the 265 students and teachers of St. Mary's Catholic Church School still missing over a week after being seized by bandits.
Bishop's Heartbreaking Revelation During Advent Mass
Most Reverend Bulus Dauwa Yohanna, the Bishop of the Kontagora Diocese and Chairman of the Niger State chapter of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), made the painful disclosure during his homily at the First Sunday of Advent Mass. The service was held at St. Michael's Catholic Cathedral in Kontagora on Sunday, November 30.
While withholding the catechist's name for security reasons, Bishop Yohanna described the situation as "tragic and unexpected." He emphasized the community's primary need for divine intervention to secure the safe return of all the abducted individuals.
"What happened to us is tragic and unexpected, but those responsible for securing us have begun to act, and we believe God will intervene soon," the Bishop stated. "One of our catechists has four children among those abducted. We cannot hide from the reality; the truth must be told."
Frustration and Confusion Grip Papiri Community
The aftermath of the abduction has been marked by trauma, conflicting information, and growing frustration among the parents and residents of Papiri. The exact number of those taken remains unconfirmed as official documentation efforts have been marred by disruption.
On Saturday, November 29, parents of the missing children attempted to organize a protest in Papiri. However, they were reportedly prevented from doing so by unidentified persons. This incident deepened the sense of anguish and helplessness within the community.
In response to the confusion, the Niger State Police Command announced it had opened a register in Papiri for parents to formally document the names of their missing children. Police spokesperson, SP Wasiu Abiodun, stated that the initiative was meant to establish accurate figures, as documentation was still ongoing.
However, local accounts contradict the police's narrative. Residents reported that school authorities had invited parents for the documentation exercise, but unknown individuals, allegedly acting "from above," dispersed the gathering before it could begin. The Police Command has firmly denied any involvement in dispersing the parents.
Calls for Action and Reliance on Faith
In the face of this crisis, Bishop Yohanna has called for sustained prayer and expressed a measured hope in the government's response. "For over a week now, 265 children and teachers remain unaccounted for. We need them back... I believe our government is ready and capable of ensuring their safe return," he told the congregation.
The worshippers at the Advent Mass joined in this appeal, directing their calls for decisive action to Niger State Governor and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. The community's resolve is now split between urgent appeals for governmental intervention and a deep reliance on spiritual solace, as they await news of their loved ones.
The abduction at St. Mary's Catholic Church School stands as one of the most significant school kidnappings in recent times, highlighting the persistent security challenges in parts of northern Nigeria and leaving hundreds of families in agonizing uncertainty.
