A wave of grief has swept through Niger State after a devastated father, identified as Mr. Anthony, reportedly died from a heart attack triggered by the kidnapping of his three children. The heartbreaking incident was confirmed by Rev. John Hayab, Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in the Northern Region and the FCT, during an interview with ARISE News on Tuesday.
Rev. Hayab painted a grim and emotional picture of the situation, describing the agony that families across Niger, Kebbi, and Kwara states are enduring following a series of coordinated school abductions. According to him, Mr. Anthony was unable to withstand the shock and trauma of losing all three of his children in one night, a tragedy that ultimately cost him his life.
He stressed that the pain is deeper than many realise, saying, “When you tell it as it is, you’re not speaking against anybody; you’re only trying to state the problem.” He added that the affected parents are too traumatised and fearful to even speak publicly about their ordeal.
Church leaders in Kontagora also recounted the overwhelming emotional burden on parents. Rev. Hayab described how shocked the late father had been, unable to process the terrifying reality of not knowing where his children were or what they were going through. Many of the abducted children, he noted, have been without sleep, food, or proper care since the attack.
Rev. Hayab also expressed frustration at the lack of visible security presence in several affected communities. He emphasised that Nigerians are tired of official statements and want real, tangible action from security agencies. “The onus is now on the security agencies… people want to see concrete action,” he insisted.
Despite the grim circumstances, a few glimpses of hope have emerged. About 50 senior students reportedly escaped by fleeing into the bush and later found their way home. But the situation remains dire, as more than 265 children—mostly aged between nine and fourteen—are still missing.
Earlier, on November 23, CAN in Niger State confirmed that 50 abducted pupils had successfully reunited with their families. Rev. Hayab also welcomed the recent release of 24 schoolgirls from Government Girls Secondary School, Maga, in Kebbi State. However, he warned that these small victories cannot overshadow the widespread trauma families are bearing, nor the glaring security lapses that made the attacks possible in the first place.
The crisis continues to expose the vulnerability of schoolchildren and the urgent need for decisive, nationwide security reforms. Families are calling for more than sympathy—they’re demanding action, protection, and answers.