In a dramatic development that has brought relief to many Nigerians, fifty pupils who were among those abducted from St. Mary's Secondary and Primary School in Papiri, Niger State, have managed to escape from their captors.
The Friday Morning Attack
Armed men stormed the educational institution in the early hours of Friday, launching a violent assault that resulted in the shooting of a security guard before kidnapping more than 200 pupils and students. The attack also led to the abduction of thirteen teaching and non-teaching staff members from the school premises.
Official Confirmation and Details
The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in Niger State has confirmed the escape through its chairman, Most Reverend Bulus Dauwa Yohanna, who also serves as the proprietor of the affected school. In his initial statement regarding the incident, Reverend Yohanna had disclosed that 215 students were taken alongside twelve staff members during the brazen attack.
The escape represents a significant development in what has become an all-too-common pattern of school abductions in northern Nigeria. While the circumstances surrounding their escape remain unclear, the safe return of these fifty children brings hope for the safe recovery of those still in captivity.
Ongoing Security Crisis
This incident highlights the continuing security challenges facing educational institutions in Niger State and across northern Nigeria. The attack on St. Mary's School occurred in Agwara Local Government Area, adding to the growing list of educational facilities targeted by armed groups in the region.
Local authorities and security forces are continuing their efforts to locate and rescue the remaining abducted students and staff members. The community remains anxious for news about those still missing while celebrating the safe return of the fifty who managed to escape.
