In a devastating security breach, bandits have stormed a Catholic secondary school in Niger State, abducting an unspecified number of students during a midnight attack.
Confirmed Attack on St. Mary's Private School
The Niger State Police Command has officially confirmed that bandits invaded St. Mary's Private (Catholic) Secondary School in Papiri, Agwara Local Government Area. According to police spokesperson SP Wasiu Abiodun, the armed assailants struck at approximately 2am, forcefully entering the school hostel and taking students captive.
Abiodun revealed that the exact number of abducted pupils remains unconfirmed as authorities continue their assessment of the situation. The attack occurred despite ongoing security challenges in the region that had prompted government directives regarding school operations.
Massive Security Response Underway
Immediately following the incident, police tactical units joined military components and other security agencies in a coordinated response operation. Security forces have mobilized to the scene and are currently combing nearby forests in an intensive search and rescue mission.
Niger State Commissioner of Police, CP Adamu Abdullahi Elleman, has personally committed to ensuring the safe return of all abducted students. The police chief emphasized his determination to rescue the students unharmed and has appealed to the public for calm and cooperation with security operations.
School Management Faces Investigation
In a significant development, the police spokesperson indicated that the school management will face investigation and necessary action for contravening state government directives. Authorities have confirmed that the school continued academic activities despite official orders to close educational institutions in the area due to prevailing security concerns.
This tragic incident highlights the persistent security challenges facing educational institutions in northern Nigeria and raises serious questions about compliance with safety protocols designed to protect students.
