Fifty of the 303 schoolchildren abducted from a Catholic school in Nigeria's Niger state have escaped captivity and are now reunited with their families, according to school authorities. The Most Rev. Bulus Dauwa Yohanna, chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria in Niger state and the school's proprietor, noted that the children, aged between 10 and 18, escaped individually between Friday and Saturday.
A total of 253 schoolchildren and 12 teachers remain in the hands of their abductors. Yohanna provided this update following contacts with parents of the missing children. The alarming incident occurred at St. Mary’s School in the remote Papiri community, where gunmen launched their attack. So far, no group has claimed responsibility for the abduction, and Nigerian authorities have not disclosed any details regarding ongoing rescue efforts.
In a separate incident, 38 worshippers kidnapped during a church attack in central Nigeria's Kwara state have regained their freedom. Kwara Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq announced their release, crediting the efforts of security agencies. Gunmen had struck the Christ Apostolic Church in Eruku town, leading to two fatalities and numerous kidnappings. President Bola Tinubu emphasized the role of security forces in securing the release of these individuals, although specific details were not elaborated.
These incidents underline the ongoing crisis in Nigeria, marked by a surge in insecurity and attacks. Recently, five police officers were killed in the northeast region during an ambush linked to a farmer-herder conflict in Bauchi state. This ambush highlights the dangerous conditions under which security forces operate while trying to maintain order.
On a global stage, Pope Leo XIV expressed his sorrow regarding the abductions, calling for the immediate release of the remaining hostages during a mass in St. Peter’s Square. He shared his condolences for the families affected by these acts of violence and urged authorities to take decisive action for their safe return.
Kidnapping for ransom has become commonplace in Nigeria, particularly targeting schools, which armed gangs view as strategic targets. The frequency of these kidnappings has escalated since the infamous abduction of the Chibok schoolgirls over a decade ago, with at least 1,500 students kidnapped in similar circumstances since then. The Niger state incident closely followed the recent abduction of 25 schoolchildren in neighboring Kebbi state, demonstrating the extensive reach of armed gangs operating in the region.
As a response to the escalating violence, Niger state has temporarily closed all schools while the Nigerian government has shut down specific federal colleges located in high-risk areas. This measure aims to protect students from further victimization as armed gangs often exploit vulnerable communities that lack effective government presence and support.
Amidst this context, U.S. President Donald Trump has raised concerns about “Christian persecution” in Nigeria, though attacks affect both Christians and Muslims alike. Recent statements by security analysts suggest that while there is no direct evidence of Trump’s comments prompting increased attacks, the prevailing lack of accountability has created a fertile ground for these violent acts to persist unchecked.
In response to these events, President Tinubu announced his government’s commitment to ensuring every hostage is freed and assured that all Nigerians have the right to safety and security. He pledged that under his administration, he would make every effort to protect the populace from such crimes.
