Amanze Chinonye
A parent of three pupils abducted from St. Mary’s Catholic School in Papiri, Niger State, has died from a heart attack triggered by the shock of the mass kidnapping, the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has confirmed.
The victim, identified only as Mr. Anthony, died shortly after gunmen stormed the school on November 21 and abducted hundreds of pupils. CAN’s Northern Region and FCT Chairman, Rev. John Hayab, revealed the development during an interview with ARISE News on Wednesday, describing the emotional breakdown as a tragic reflection of the trauma families continue to endure.
Hayab said parents were increasingly fearful and distressed, recalling that when CAN officials visited Kontagora, “the pains and trauma were still very fresh,” and many parents declined to speak due to fear. He added that local reports indicated no visible security presence in affected communities following the attack.
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He disclosed that 50 senior students who fled during the abduction had returned on their own, but over 265 pupils mostly between the ages of nine and 14 remain missing. This is in addition to other recent school abductions in Kebbi and Kwara states, including the release of 24 schoolgirls in Danko-Wasagu confirmed by presidential spokesperson Bayo Onanuga.
Hayab criticised what he described as misallocation of security personnel, arguing that “a large chunk of those who are supposed to secure Nigerians are securing VIPs,” and insisting that banks and private entities should not rely on police officers meant for national security. His remarks coincided with the recent directive by President Bola Tinubu ordering police officers attached to VIPs to return to their bases.
Meanwhile, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar sharply criticised the Federal Government’s handling of the mass abductions, accusing officials of attempting to “whitewash a national tragedy.” Responding to statements by Onanuga who said security agencies knew the bandits’ identities and locations but were constrained by the proximity of civilian hostages Atiku said the explanation exposed the government’s failure to act decisively.
“The release of abducted Nigerians is not a trophy moment,” Atiku said. “It is a reminder that terrorists now operate freely and negotiate openly while this administration issues press statements to save face.”
Mr. Anthony’s death has deepened the grief within Papiri community and underscored the unrelenting human toll of Nigeria’s insecurity crisis one that continues to break families even before hostages return home.
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.
