Tension has enveloped the Papiri community in Agwara Local Government Area of Niger State after terrorists launched a midnight attack on St. Mary’s Catholic School, abducting several students, teachers and members of staff. The exact number of victims remains unclear, but early local reports suggest that dozens of pupils may have been taken during the raid, which occurred between 1 a.m. and 3 a.m.
According to sources, that the attackers stormed the school compound while students were asleep, forcing some of them into the bush. A church official in Niger State confirmed the incident, noting that the school was still compiling the list of those missing. “Yes, it is true, but I am not in a position to give details. The church will issue an official statement later in the day,” he said.
Security agencies have begun responding to the incident. The spokesperson for the Niger State Police Command, SP Wasiu Abiodun, said details would be released soon, adding that tactical units have already been deployed to search nearby forests for the abducted children and teachers.
The Northern States Governors’ Forum (NSGF) condemned the abduction, describing it as another alarming attack on the region’s education system. The forum called for swift, coordinated action from security agencies to ensure the safe rescue of the victims and to prevent further attacks on schools and vulnerable communities.
Fear and uncertainty continue to grip families in Papiri as they await official updates on the fate of their loved ones. Authorities and community leaders are expected to release more information as rescue operations progress.
