The disturbing kidnapping saga in Niger State has escalated, with the number of abducted students and teachers now confirmed at 315, according to updates from the Catholic Diocese of Kontagora. The crisis, which has gripped communities and raised national alarm, continues to unfold as families and authorities seek answers and the safe return of the victims.
Earlier reports had suggested slightly lower figures, but following a thorough verification exercise and further inquiries, the total number of abducted individuals has been updated. The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in Niger State, through its chairman, Most Rev. Bulus Yohanna, confirmed that 303 students and 12 teachers remain in captivity. The abducted teachers comprise four females and eight males. The affected school, St Mary’s Catholic Primary and Secondary Schools in Papiri, Agwara Local Government Area, has a total enrolment of 629 students, with 430 in the primary section and 199 in the secondary.
The Catholic Diocese has also addressed circulating claims that the government had ordered the school to close amid the security crisis. In a strong statement, the Diocese denied ever receiving any directive from government authorities or security agencies. Bishop officials emphasized that such narratives appear to be attempts to shift blame, noting that the school has consistently complied with both formal and informal security advisories in the past. The Diocese highlighted that the school is owned and managed by the Catholic Diocese itself, not by any individual, and dismissed allegations that Reverend Sisters had traveled to Abuja regarding the matter.
The Education Secretary of the Diocese confirmed that no circular or official communication was received, a statement supported by the National Association of Private Schools. The unfolding situation has left parents, communities, and the wider Nigerian public in distress as they continue to hope for the swift and safe release of all abducted students and teachers.