Amanze Chinonye
Armed men stormed St. Mary’s Catholic Boarding School in Papiri, Agwara Local Government Area of Niger State, early Friday, abducting an unconfirmed number of students and staff, the Niger State government confirmed.
According to local sources, the attackers struck between 2 a.m. and 3 a.m., using motorcycles and vehicles to carry out the raid. The exact number of those taken remains unknown as authorities continue to compile figures. There are no reports of deaths at this time.
The Niger State Government condemned the attack as “deeply distressing,” noting that prior intelligence had warned of heightened security risks in the northern part of the state. Officials criticized the school for resuming boarding operations without obtaining official clearance, which they say exposed students and staff to danger.
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Security agencies have launched search-and-rescue operations, and the state government says it is in constant communication with security formations to secure the release of the abducted individuals. Residents and school authorities have been urged to follow all security directives to prevent further tragedies.
A source within the local Catholic community confirmed the abduction, noting that the church is still compiling records to determine the exact number of missing students and staff.
The incident adds to a rising wave of school kidnappings across northern and north-central Nigeria, with recent high-profile cases in Kebbi and Niger states sparking national concern. Church leaders have called on authorities to take decisive action to protect children from the escalating attacks.
No group has claimed responsibility for the raid, and there is no information yet on ransom demands or the location of the abducted. The situation is ongoing, with security forces continuing their efforts to rescue the victims.
Amanze Chinonye is a Staff Correspondent at Prime Business Africa, a rising star in the literary world, weaving captivating stories that transport readers to the vibrant landscapes of Nigeria and the rest of Africa. With a unique voice that blends with the newspaper's tradition and style, Chinonye's writing is a masterful exploration of the human condition, delving into themes of identity, culture, and social justice. Through her words, Chinonye paints vivid portraits of everyday African life, from the bustling markets of Nigeria's Lagos to the quiet villages of South Africa's countryside . With a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of the complexities of Nigerian society, Chinonye's writing is both a testament to the country's rich cultural heritage and a powerful call to action for a brighter future. As a writer, Chinonye is a true storyteller, using her dexterity to educate, inspire, and uplift readers around the world.
