The Catholic Bishop of Kontagora Diocese and Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria in Niger State, Most Rev. Bulus Yohanna, has disclosed that there has been no communication from the kidnappers responsible for the abduction of pupils and teachers at St Mary’s Catholic School, Papiri, in Agwara Local Government Area.
“So far, we have not had any contact with them. As I’m speaking now, we’ve not had any call regarding the abductors,” Yohanna told Channels Television on Friday.
The attack occurred in the early hours of November 21, when gunmen reportedly shot a security guard and abducted students and staff.
Initial reports suggested that 215 pupils and 12 teachers were missing, but a subsequent verification exercise by security operatives, community leaders, and diocesan officials revised the number to 315 people: 303 students and 12 teachers.
Yohanna said 50 pupils have since escaped and reunited with their families, leaving 265 still unaccounted for.
The bishop provided details of the assault, noting that the attackers initially attempted to breach the convent but were unsuccessful.
“I think the first attempt was to see if they could break through where the sisters are living. That didn’t happen. They were not able to break the place because when they came to the gate, they asked, ‘Where are the sisters living?’ The gateman said, ‘Well, they work here, but they don’t live here.’ So they shot him and then forced the gate open,” he said.
He added that the assailants also tried to force entry into the school gates but failed, ultimately breaking into the dormitory where the children were kept.
“They shot into the air, and everyone was scared. Many tried to escape into the bushes, but they were able to make their way with some of the children and staff. We do not yet know the exact number taken,” Yohanna said.
On claims that the school had prior warnings of an attack, Yohanna clarified that the school had only received rumors in 2021 and 2022. Security measures were reinforced at the time, including building a fence and hiring additional guards.
“We shut the place for five months to improve security and relocated students taking final exams. Since then, there have been no warnings until this incident,” he said.
Regarding cooperation with security agencies, Yohanna confirmed ongoing communication with the DSS in Kontagora, and that statements had been submitted by the sisters to the local police.
“Most of the information we have, especially the details, I’ve forwarded to DSS. The sisters have also given statements to the police with details and names of all those missing,” he added.
He described the parents of the abducted children as traumatized and hopeful for their safe return.
“Everyone is traumatised and worried. We are praying and hoping that by the grace of God, their children will be released,” Yohanna said.
The bishop also highlighted the broader issue of school security in Nigeria, referencing past initiatives following the Chibok abduction.
“We have done all we can on our part, reinforcing security and listening to the government. Officially, schools are closed in Niger State for now,” he said.
