50 Pupils Escape From Niger School Abduction, Reunite With Families

There is relief and cautious optimism in Papiri community, Agwara Local Government Area of Niger
State as 50 pupils abducted from St. Mary Catholic School have successfully escaped captivity and
reunited with their families.
According to community sources and early government updates, the pupils managed to flee from their
captors late Tuesday night. Their escape follows days of intense pressure after armed attackers invaded
the school, abducting over 100 children and sparking national outrage.

The 50 children were received back in Papiri amid tears, prayers, and jubilation. Parents who had
endured days of uncertainty embraced their children as local vigilantes and community leaders
coordinated their safe return.
Health officials and emergency responders have since taken charge, conducting medical examinations to
ensure the pupils are stable and addressing signs of trauma, dehydration, and exhaustion.
Preliminary confirmation from local authorities indicates that the escape was aided by gaps in the
kidnappers’ surveillance, allowing the pupils to flee in small groups before making their way back to
safety.

A senior Niger State security official, who spoke on condition of anonymity, confirmed the development:
“Fifty pupils have made it back home. We are still accounting for the remaining children, and security
agencies are intensifying operations to ensure their safe return.”
The Niger State Government is expected to release an official statement shortly, with security personnel
and volunteers continuing search-and-rescue operations across forested areas bordering the
community.
The attack on St. Mary Catholic School is one of the latest incidents in a wave of school abductions
affecting communities in northern Nigeria. The incident triggered protests, calls for federal intervention,
and demands for improved rural security.

While the escape of 50 children brings hope, a significant number remain in captivity. Authorities have
urged the public to remain calm as coordinated rescue efforts intensify.
Security teams, including local vigilantes, are combing through the area, while community leaders
continue to appeal for the safe return of all abducted pupils.

By Oyinkansola Shittu.

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