The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has strongly condemned the shocking abduction of pupils, teachers, and a security guard from St. Mary's Catholic Primary and Secondary Schools in Papiri, Agwara Local Government Area of Niger state.
Midnight Attack on School Complex
Armed gunmen invaded the Catholic school complex between 1 a.m. and 3 a.m. on Thursday, launching a brazen attack that left the community in turmoil. The assailants shot the security guard before whisking away an undisclosed number of students and staff members during the midnight raid.
Rev. Bulus Yohanna, the Chairman of CAN in Niger state, expressed deep concern about the safety of the abductees and the emotional trauma their families are experiencing. He described the attack as distressing and unacceptable in a statement issued in Minna on Friday.
CAN's Response and Rescue Efforts
The Christian Association revealed it is working closely with security agencies, community leaders, and relevant government authorities to support ongoing rescue operations. Rev. Yohanna, who also serves as the Catholic Bishop of Kontagora Diocese, urged residents to remain calm and cooperate with security operatives tracking the suspects.
CAN reaffirmed its commitment to advocating for improved protection for children and the reinforcement of security in schools nationwide. The religious leader also appealed to Christians and Nigerians at large to pray for the immediate release of the abducted students and staff.
Government Reaction and Security Measures
The Niger state government has broken its silence on the incident, with Secretary to the State Government Abubakar Usman confirming that security agencies are working on the matter. Efforts are ongoing to rescue the pupils from their captors.
Officials disclosed that the government had previously urged the closure of boarding schools in the Niger North senatorial district after intelligence reports indicated possible attacks. This precautionary measure highlights the growing security concerns affecting educational institutions in the region.
In his concluding remarks, Rev. Yohanna stated: "May the Lord grant quick release to those abducted and continue to protect His people from all dangers." The incident has raised serious questions about the security of educational facilities in northern Nigeria and the urgent need for comprehensive protection measures.
