50 students abducted from St. Mary’s Catholic School in Niger State have escaped and reunited with their families, while over 253 others remain captive.
The Niger State chapter of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has reported a breakthrough in the ongoing crisis at St. Mary’s Catholic School, Papiri, where 315 students were abducted on Friday.
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According to an update from Daniel Atori, Media Aide to the Bishop of Kontogora Catholic Diocese and Chairman of CAN in the state, 50 students have successfully escaped from the kidnappers and have been reunited with their parents.
“At last, some good news. Between Friday and Saturday, 50 students managed to escape and are now back with their families,” Atori said on Sunday. He added that the reunited pupils could not return to school immediately following their escape.
CAN confirmed the update after reaching out to several parents and conducting verification visits.
“For the records, we now have 251 primary pupils, 14 secondary students and 12 teachers still with their abductors,” the statement said.
“In the primary section, out of the total number of 430 pupils we have in the school, 377 of them are boarders and the remaining 53 others are non-boarders.
“Currently, aside the 50 pupils that escaped and have returned home, we have 141 pupils who were not carried away. As it stands now, we have 236 pupils, another 3 children who belong to our staff, 14 secondary students making a total 253 children including 12 members of staff with the abductors.
“As much as we receive the return of these 50 children that escaped with some sigh of relief, I urge you all to continue in your prayers for the rescue and safe return of the remaining victims,” he said.
“I want to call on everyone to remain calm and prayerful as we will continue to actively collaborate with security operatives, community leaders, government and relevant authorities for the safe and quick return of all abductees.”
“May the Lord grant quick release to those abducted and continue to protect his people from all dangers,” he added.
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