The Christian Association of Nigeria in Niger State has confirmed that the number of pupils and students abducted from St Mary Private Primary and Secondary Schools has risen to 303.
Including 12 teachers, the total number of victims now stands at 315.
Most Rev. Bulus Yohanna, chairman of CAN in Niger State, disclosed this in a statement released on Saturday via his media aide, Daniel Atori.
He explained that the increase followed a verification exercise and final census.
“The total number of victims abducted from St Mary’s Catholic Primary and Secondary Schools, Papiri, in Agwara Local Government Area is now 303 students and 12 teachers,” Atori quoted the Bishop as saying.
“After leaving the school, we made calls and conducted a verification exercise to confirm the status of those we thought had escaped. We discovered that 88 more students had been captured while attempting to flee. This came to light when parents, whose children we believed were safe, inquired about them. It prompted us to carry out a full census, which revealed the higher number.”
“At present, 303 students, both male and female, and 12 teachers—four female and eight male—remain abducted, bringing the total number of victims to 315. The school’s enrolment stands at 629, with 430 in the primary section and 199 in the secondary,” he added.
The Bishop also addressed claims that the school received prior government warnings.
“Contrary to rumours, no circular or warning was received from the government or security agencies. This narrative appears to be an afterthought aimed at shifting blame.
In 2022, when security concerns arose, the school shut down immediately. We have always complied with security advisories, whether formal or informal.
“The school is owned by the Catholic Diocese, not any individual. No Reverend Sisters travelled to Abuja, as alleged. Anyone making such claims should provide proof or retract the statements. Our Education Secretary confirmed he received no circulars, written or verbal, and the National Association of Private Schools also received none.”
He concluded with a plea for patience and prayers, “We urge everyone to remain prayerful. We will continue to collaborate actively with security operatives, community leaders, government, and relevant authorities to ensure the safe return of all abductees. May the Lord grant their quick release and protect His people from harm.”
