Midnight horror: Terrorists again abduct students, teachers from Catholic school in Niger

By Johnson Arua

Terrorists have abducted an unspecified number of pupils and staff of St. Mary’s Catholic School in Papiri community, Agwara Local Government Area of Niger State.

The attack reportedly occurred between 2am and 3am on Friday when armed men stormed the school and whisked away students and teachers. The exact number of abductees remains unclear as authorities continue to assess the situation.

Secretary to the Niger State Government (SSG), Alhaji Abubakar Usman, confirmed the incident, describing it as “deeply distressing and avoidable.” He said security agencies were still trying to determine the number of victims.

“The exact number of abducted pupils is yet to be confirmed as security agencies continue to assess the situation,” he said.

Usman revealed that the attack occurred despite earlier intelligence warnings indicating a heightened threat level across Niger North Senatorial District. He disclosed that the state government had previously issued directives suspending all construction activities and ordering the temporary closure of all boarding schools in the zone.

However, he noted that St. Mary’s School resumed academic activities without notifying or obtaining clearance from the government.

“Regrettably, St. Mary’s School proceeded to reopen and resume academic activities without seeking clearance from the State Government, thereby exposing pupils and staff to avoidable risk,” the statement read.

The state government said a full-scale investigation and search-and-rescue operation had been launched to ensure the safe return of the abducted pupils and staff. It assured residents that it was in close communication with security agencies and would provide updates as more details emerge.

The Commissioner of Police, Adamu Abdullahi Ellema, also confirmed the incident, adding that police tactical units, military personnel and other security operatives had been deployed to the area to comb nearby forests.

Head of Department, Disaster and Relief, Agwara Local Government, Ahmed Abdullahi Rofia, confirmed that authorities were still verifying the number of abducted students and staff.

When contacted, the Police Command spokesperson, SP Wasiu Abiodun, said further details would be provided later.

The abduction comes barely days after 25 students were kidnapped in Maga, Kebbi State, further escalating fears over rising attacks on schools across northern Nigeria. It also follows a deadly attack in Kwara State where three worshippers were killed and over 20 kidnapped from a CAC church in Eruku, prompting authorities to shut down more than 50 schools.

The recurring incidents have intensified calls for strengthened security measures and closer adherence to government advisories, particularly in vulnerable communities.

Authorities have urged residents to remain calm and provide useful information to security personnel as efforts to rescue the abducted students continue.