Fifty students escape abduction in Niger State, reuniting safely with families after a tense captivity at St Mary’s Private Schools in Agwara LGA

Fifty students abducted from St Mary’s Private Catholic Primary and Secondary Schools in Papiri, Agwara Local Government Area, have miraculously escaped from captivity.

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According to a statement on Sunday, Bulus Dauwa Yohanna, chairman of the Niger state chapter of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) and Catholic bishop of Kontagora diocese, confirmed that the pupils regained their freedom between Friday and Saturday and quietly reunited with their families.

Bishop Yohanna described the return of the students as a “blessing” and urged continued prayers for the safety of all children in the state.

“We are grateful for their safe return and appeal to communities to remain vigilant,” he said.

The incident, which sparked widespread fear across Agwara LGA, ended on a positive note, bringing relief to parents and residents alike.

Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the abduction and are working to ensure such events do not recur.

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The successful escape highlights the resilience of the pupils and the importance of community vigilance in safeguarding children from insecurity in the region.