The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Niger State chapter, has strongly condemned the attack on St. Mary’s Catholic Primary and Secondary Schools in Papiri, Agwara Local Government Area, where gunmen kidnapped students, teachers, and security personnel in the early hours of Friday.
In a statement issued by its chairman, Most Rev. Bulus Dauwa Yohanna, the association confirmed that the armed men launched the assault between 1:00 a.m. and 3:00 a.m., invading the boarding school and taking away several pupils and staff members. The attackers reportedly shot one of the school’s security personnel, leaving him critically injured before abducting the victims.
Yohanna described the incident as “tragic and heartbreaking,” adding that the association is deeply worried about the safety and wellbeing of the abducted children, teachers, and their families.
“The CAN strongly condemns this violent attack and expresses profound concern for the kidnapped children and their families,” the statement read. “This act of terror is unacceptable, and we call on all relevant authorities to intensify efforts to ensure their immediate release.”
The chairman, who also serves as the Bishop of Kontagora Diocese, said CAN is in active collaboration with security agencies, community leaders, and the Niger State Government to support ongoing rescue efforts. He urged residents to remain calm, cooperate with security operatives, and continue to pray for the safe return of all abductees.
Yohanna reaffirmed CAN’s commitment to the protection of children within the state, promising that the association would continue to release verified updates as more information becomes available.
“May the Lord grant quick release to those abducted and continue to protect His people from all danger,” he added.
Witness accounts indicate that the attackers arrived in large numbers on more than 60 motorcycles, accompanied by a van, and overwhelmed the school’s security before abducting their victims. The invasion is the latest in a series of attacks targeting schools and vulnerable communities across Niger State.
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