The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in Niger State has confirmed that the number of pupils and students abducted from St Mary Private Primary and Secondary Schools has risen to 303, following a fresh verification exercise.
The attack took place in Papiri, Agwara Local Government Area, when armed men invaded St Mary’s Catholic School early on Friday, initially abducting 215 pupils and 12 teachers. After further checks and inquiries, the number of kidnapped students increased to 303, bringing the total number of victims—including the 12 teachers—to 315.
The Chairman of CAN in Niger State, Most Rev. Bulus Yohanna, disclosed this in a statement released on Saturday through his media aide, Daniel Atori. He said the new figure emerged after a detailed headcount involving parents and school authorities.
According to the Bishop, many parents whose children were earlier thought to have escaped later reported that their wards were missing, prompting a full-scale verification.
“At present, 303 students—both male and female—and 12 teachers remain abducted. That brings the total number of victims to 315,” he said. The school’s total population is 629, with 430 in primary school and 199 in secondary school.
The Bishop also addressed claims that the school ignored a government directive to shut down ahead of the attack. He insisted that neither the school nor the National Association of Private Schools received any circular or warning from the government or security agencies.
“Contrary to rumours, no circular or warning was received. This appears to be an attempt to shift blame. In the past, when advisories were issued, the school complied immediately,” he stated.
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He added that the school is owned by the Catholic Diocese and not by any individual, dismissing allegations that some Reverend Sisters travelled to Abuja despite warnings. He challenged anyone with proof to present it.
The Bishop appealed to the public to remain calm and prayerful, assuring that CAN and the school authority are working closely with security agencies, community leaders, and government officials.
“Our focus is the safe return of all abductees. May God protect them and bring them back safely,” he said.
