The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Niger State chapter, says 50 pupils abducted from St. Mary’s Private Catholic Primary and Secondary Schools, Papiri in Agwara Local Government Area, have escaped from captivity.
The Chairman of CAN in the state and Catholic Bishop of Kontagora Diocese, Most Rev. Bulus Dauwa Yohanna, confirmed this in a statement issued on Sunday in Minna.
Yohanna said the pupils regained their freedom between Friday and Saturday and later reunited with their families.
“The pupils escaped between Friday and Saturday and have reunited with their parents as they could not return to the school after they escaped,” he said.
He explained that officials of the school traced the children after contacting and visiting some parents.
According to him, the school has 430 pupils in the primary section — 377 boarders and 53 day pupils.
“Currently, aside from the 50 pupils that escaped and have returned home, we have 141 pupils who were not taken away.
“As it stands, we have 236 pupils, three children of staff members, and 14 secondary school students — making a total of 253 children — still with the abductors, in addition to 12 staff members,” he added.
Yohanna appealed for calm and urged the public to remain prayerful as efforts continue to secure the release of those still in captivity.
“We urge everyone to remain calm and prayerful as we collaborate with security agencies, community leaders and government authorities to ensure the safe and swift return of all abductees,” he said.