Governor Umar Bago, Niger Statea
By Alfred Akwe
Armed terrorists in the early hours of Thursday, November 21, launched a violent attack on the Catholic Primary and Secondary School in Papiri, Niger State, abducting an unconfirmed number of pupils and students.
A statement released by the Catholic Diocese of Kontagora confirmed that the attackers struck between 1:00am and 3:00am, creating panic within the school community. The statement, signed by the Diocesan Secretary, Rev. Fr. Jatau Luka Joseph, noted that the school’s security guard was severely shot during the incident. It did not specify the number of students and staff taken.
The Diocese condemned the attack, describing it as “a tragic and deeply distressing assault on innocent children.” It expressed grave concern for the safety of the abducted victims and their families.
According to the Church, security agencies have been contacted and have commenced coordinated operations to ensure the safe rescue and return of the abductees.
The Bishop also assured the public that the Church is working closely with security operatives, community leaders, and government authorities. He appealed for calm, prayers, and cooperation as efforts intensify to bring the children home safely. The Church further pledged to provide verified updates as the situation unfolds.
Meanwhile, the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Niger State Chapter, has condemned the attack, urging government and security agencies to act swiftly. In a statement issued by Daniel Atori, Media Aide to the CAN Chairman, Most Rev. Bulus Dauwa Yohanna, the group assured that the Christian community is united in supporting security efforts for a safe and speedy rescue.
KrestNews reports that the Papiri school abduction comes barely eight days after 25 schoolgirls were kidnapped from a girls’ school in Kebbi State, where the Vice Principal was killed.
Recent attacks have increasingly targeted churches and faith-based institutions. The earlier assault on Christ Apostolic Church, Eruku Kwarra, left many dead and others kidnapped, with a ransom demand of ₦100 million placed on 35 abducted victims.
As at the time of filing this report, neither the federal nor Niger State government had issued an official response. Read more at www.krestnews.com