November 21, (THEWILL) — A few days after the abduction of 25 girls at a boarding school in Kebbi state by bandits, an unconfirmed number of pupils, students and staff have been abducted at St. Mary’s Catholic Primary and Secondary Schools in Papiri, Ncommunity, Agwara Local Government Area of Niger state.
Although details of the incident remain sketchy, THEWILL gather that the gunmen badly shot a security personnel.
According to an official statement issued on Friday and signed by the Diocesan Secretary, Catholic Diocese of Kontagora, Fr. Jatau Luka Joseph, the attackers stormed the school between 1:00 a.m. and 3:00 a.m., whisking away children, staff members and a teacher, while a security personnel was reportedly shot during the invasion.
The Diocese expressed strong condemnation of the attack, describing it as a grave assault on innocent children, educators and the right to education. It also voiced deep concern for the safety of the victims and their families.
Fr. Jatau stated that security agencies were immediately alerted and have since begun coordinated operations aimed at rescuing the abducted victims. He noted that the Bishop of Kontagora has assured the public that the Diocese is in active collaboration with security operatives, community leaders and relevant government authorities to ensure a safe and swift rescue.
“The Diocese calls on the public to remain calm, support security efforts and continue praying for the safe and quick return of all abducted”, the statement read. It further reaffirmed the Church’s commitment to the protection of children and pledged to provide verified updates as more information becomes available.
Security agencies are yet to issue an official update on rescue efforts as joint operations continue in the area.
The Spokesperson for the Niger State Police Command, SP Wasiu Abiodun, said he would provide details later.
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