By Sunday Elijah,
Fifty pupils abducted from St. Mary’s Private Catholic Primary and Secondary Schools in Papiri have escaped and returned home, but 253 students and staff remain in captivity, according to school officials.
The mass kidnapping occurred earlier this week when suspected terrorists stormed the school. The 430-strong primary section of the school includes 377 boarders and 53 day students. Following the escape of 50 pupils between Friday and Saturday, 141 primary students were confirmed unharmed. Among those still held are 236 students, three children of staff, 14 secondary students, and 12 staff members.
Most Rev. Bulus Dauwa Yohanna, Catholic Bishop of Kontagora Diocese and Proprietor of the schools, confirmed the update, saying authorities are working with security agencies and community leaders to secure the release of the remaining hostages.
“The safe return of 50 children is a relief, but our prayers remain with those still in captivity,” Bishop Yohanna said.
The abduction is part of a growing trend of attacks on schools across West Africa, where extremist groups have increasingly targeted educational institutions. Analysts warn that these attacks endanger children, disrupt education, and threaten regional stability.
Security forces are coordinating with government agencies, local leaders, and faith-based organizations to negotiate the release of the remaining students and staff. The incident has drawn attention from African diaspora communities, who are closely monitoring developments and calling for stronger protective measures for schools in high-risk areas.
