By Emmanuella Oghenetega
Police tactical units, military components and other security agencies have moved to the Papiri Agwara Local government area in Niger State, where armed bandits invaded the St. Mary’s Private (Catholic) Secondary School at early hours of this morning and abducted students and staff.
Speaking with the SP Wasiu .A. Abiodun,
PPRO Niger State Command, he confirmed that on 21st November, 2025 at about 2.00am, reports received indicated that some armed bandits invaded St. Mary’s Private (Catholic) Secondary School, Papiri Agwara LGA and abducted a yet-to-be ascertained number of students from the School’s hostel.
He stated, that the Police tactical units, military components and other security agencies have moved to the scene, combing the forests with a view to rescue the abducted students.
Reacting to the incident, the Catholic Diocese of Kontagora, in a statement signed by the Diocesan Secretary, Jatau Luka Joseph, “strongly condemned the attack,” expressing deep concern for the safety of the kidnapped children and their families. He disclosed that security agencies were immediately alerted and have since begun coordinated efforts to rescue the victims.
He stated that, armed attackers indeed stormed the school between the early hours of 1:00 a.m. and 3:00 a.m., leaving the entire school community in fear and distress, following the abduction of several students, teachers and a security personnel who was reportedly shot during the incident.
He assured the public that the Diocese is working closely with security operatives, community leaders and relevant government authorities to ensure the safe return of those abducted.
He urged the public to remain calm, support security efforts and continue praying for the quick release of the victims.
