Kontagora diocese decries abduction of students and staff in Niger State school attack

The Catholic Diocese of Kontagora has condemned the violent attack on St. Mary’s Catholic Primary and Secondary School in Papiri, Agwara Local Government Area of Niger State, where armed men invaded the premises and abducted students, staff members, and a security guard during a late-night raid.

According to the diocese, the attackers stormed the school in the early hours of the morning, shooting sporadically before rounding up their victims and escaping into the bush. A security guard on duty was reportedly shot during the incident.

In a statement signed by Fr. Jatau Luka Joseph, the Diocesan Secretary, the Church expressed deep concern over the safety of the abducted students and employees, noting that the parish community and the diocese are “in great distress” as families grapple with uncertainty.

The diocese confirmed that security agencies were immediately alerted and have since begun coordinated efforts to track the attackers and rescue the captives. Church officials said they are working closely with local authorities, community leaders, and law enforcement to aid the investigation and recovery efforts.

The statement also urged Nigerians to pray for the safe return of the children and staff, describing the attack as another painful reminder of the worsening insecurity affecting schools, churches, and rural communities in parts of the country.

Meanwhile, state officials have expressed concern over the recurring pattern of school attacks in the region, noting that the latest incident highlights the urgent need for improved security presence in vulnerable areas.

The Niger State Government has also opened communication with the school and the diocese as part of its ongoing response, while security formations continue combing nearby forests and riverine communities for leads.

As families wait anxiously for updates, the Diocese of Kontagora has called for calm, solidarity, and stronger protection for educational institutions in rural communities, stressing that children must not continue to bear the brunt of the nation’s security challenges.