The Niger State Government has confirmed the abduction of students and staff from Saint Mary’s School, Papiri, Agwara Local Government Area.
Daily Trust had reported how bandits broke into the school premises between 2am and 3am on Friday.
The Head of Department, Disaster and Relief in Agwara Local Government, Ahmed Abdullahi Rofia, had confirmed the attack via telephone, but did not go into details.
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However, in a statement, Abubakar Usman, Secretary to the Niger State Government, said following prior intelligence, the government directing closing of all boarding schools in the area, but the Catholic school affected defied the warning and reopened.
“The Niger state government has received with deep sadness the disturbing news of the kidnapping of pupils from St. Mary’s School in Agwara Local Government Area. The exact number of abducted pupils is yet to be confirmed as security agencies continue to assess the situation.”
“The state received prior intelligence report indicating an increased threat level in parts of the northern senatorial district.
“In response to these credible security alerts, the State Government had earlier issued a clear directive suspending all construction activities and ordering the temporary closure of all boarding schools within the affected zone as a precautionary measure.
“St. Mary’s School, however, proceeded to reopen and resume academic activities without notifying or seeking clearance from the state.
“Security agencies have since commenced a full-scale investigation and search-and-rescue operations to ensure the safe return of the pupils.
“The Niger State Government is in close communication with all relevant security formations and will provide continuous updates as more information becomes available.
“The Government urges school proprietors, community leaders, and all stakeholders to adhere strictly to security advisories issued in the interest of public safety. The protection of lives, especially those of our children, remains the utmost priority of this administration.”
The Kwara State government had shut down over 50 schools as a result of resurgence in attacks.
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