By Ayodele Oni
An unspecified number of students and staff of the St. Mary’s School, a Catholic institution located in Papiri community, Agwara Local Government Area of Niger State were reportedly abducted by terrorists.
The latest abduction comes days after a similar attack in Maga, Kebbi State, where 25 students were kidnapped, heightening concerns over the deteriorating security situation in educational institutions across the country.
The incident occurred between 2.00am and 3.00am on Friday.
Confirming the incident in a statement, the Niger state government said it has received with deep sadness the disturbing news of the kidnapping of pupils from St. Mary’s School in Agwara Local Government Area.
“The exact number of abducted pupils is yet to be confirmed as security agencies continue to assess the situation,” the statement disclosed.
The statement, signed by Abubakar Usman, secretary to the Niger state government, stated that the state received prior intelligence report indicating an increased threat level in parts of the northern senatorial district.
“In response to these credible security alerts, the State Government had earlier issued a clear directive suspending all construction activities and ordering the temporary closure of all boarding schools within the affected zone as a precautionary measure,” the statement reads.
The statement explained that St. Mary’s School, however, proceeded to reopen and resume academic activities without notifying or seeking clearance from the state.
“Security agencies have since commenced a full-scale investigation and search-and-rescue operations to ensure the safe return of the pupils.
“The Niger State Government is in close communication with all relevant security formations and will provide continuous updates as more information becomes available.
“The Government urges school proprietors, community leaders, and all stakeholders to adhere strictly to security advisories issued in the interest of public safety.
“The protection of lives, especially those of our children, remains the utmost priority of this administration,” statement added.
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