The Catholic Diocese of Kontagora has confirmed that armed bandits invaded St Mary’s Catholic Primary and Secondary School in Papiri, Agwara local government area of Niger state.
In a memo titled “Attack and kindnapping of pupils, students and teachers of St Mary’s Catholic Primary and Secondary Schools, Papiri” signed by the Diocesan Secretary, Jatau Luka Joseph, stated that pupils, and teachers were abudcted while a security personnel was badly shot.
The Diocesan Secretary stated that the incident occurred between 1:00 a.m. and 3:00 a.m. and has caused fear and distress within the school community.
“The Catholic Diocese of Kontagora strongly condemn the attack and express deep concern for the safety of the kidnapped children and their families. Security agencies were immediately informed and have begun coordinated efforts to ensure the safe rescue and return of the victims.
“The Bishop assures the public that Diocese is actively collaborating with security operatives, community leaders, and government authorities.”
The Diocese then called on the public to remain calm, support security efforts, and continue praying for the safe and quick return of all abducted.
The Niger state Police Command has stated that it has deployed police tactical units, military components to Papiri for the immediate rescue of the kidnapped students.
In a related development, the Niger state police public relations officer, SP Abiodun Wasiu, said that the number of students abducted from the school’s hostel is yet to be ascertained.
“Police tactical units, military components and other security agencies have moved to the scene, combing the forests with a view to rescue the abducted students.
“In view of this, the Commissioner of Police Niger State Command, Adamu Abdullahi Elleman reiterated the Command’s commitment to rescue the students unhurt, and appealed to members of the public to remain calm and support security operations to rescue the students.”
