The Catholic Diocese of Kontagora has confirmed the
safe release and reunification of all abducted pupils and staff of St. Mary’s
Catholic Primary and Secondary Schools, Papiri, in Agwara Local Government Area
of Niger State.
In a press statement dated December 25, 2025, Bishop
Bulus Dauwa Yohanna revealed that a total of 230 children and staff members
were verified to have been abducted and subsequently rescued following thorough
reconciliation and verification exercises.
The abducted persons included 12 staff members, 14
students, and 204 pupils, all of whom have now returned safely to their
families thanks to the concerted efforts of the Nigerian government and
security agencies.
Immediately after the abduction on Friday, November
21, an initial headcount suggested that 315 individuals were missing. By
November 23, it was confirmed that 50 persons had either escaped or reunited
with their families, reducing the total number. Subsequent verification in
collaboration with the Parents-Teachers Association (PTA) clarified that an
additional 35 individuals had not been abducted or had escaped earlier,
bringing the final verified total to 230.
Bishop Yohanna explained that discrepancies during the
early counts were due to the chaotic nature of the incident, with some pupils
fleeing into nearby bushes and parents absent during initial verifications. He
assured that there was no intent to mislead the public and emphasized that the
final figures reflect accurate verification.
The Diocese extended heartfelt gratitude to the
Federal and Niger State Governments, security agencies, parents, the Christian
community, and the media for their support, prayers, and solidarity throughout
the ordeal. The Bishop prayed for healing, restoration, and lasting peace for
all affected families.
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