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The Niger State Caucus in the National Assembly has expressed grave concern and deep sorrow over the abduction of pupils of St. Mary’s Catholic School in Agwara Local Government Area by armed terrorists. The lawmakers described the incident as a devastating reminder of the growing insecurity threatening communities across Niger State and the country at large.

In a statement co-signed by Sen. Mohammed Sani Musa, CON; Sen. Abubakar Sani Bello; Sen. Peter A. Jiya; Hon. Abdullahi Idris Garba; Hon. Shehu Saleh Rijau; Hon. Abdullahi Mamudu; Hon. Saidu Musa Abdullahi; Hon. Jafaru Mohammed; Hon. Yusuf Kure Baraje; Hon. Joshua Audu Gana; Hon. Ismaila Musa Modibbo; Hon. Adamu Tanko; and Hon. Abubakar Abdu Buba, the Caucus expressed solidarity with Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago, the Niger State Government, the people of Agwara, and families affected by the tragic incident.

“We are heartbroken by this attack on our children,” the lawmakers said. “This is yet another painful reminder that the security situation in parts of Niger State has reached an unacceptable level. No community deserves to live under the shadow of such fear.”

They offered prayers for the safe return of the abducted students, noting that “the innocence of these young learners must not be violated by those who have chosen the path of terror.”

The lawmakers condemned the attack in the strongest terms and reaffirmed their commitment to working closely with security agencies to ensure the immediate rescue of the abducted children. “We will not relent until every child is safely reunited with their family,” the Caucus insisted. “No child in Niger State should ever be subjected to the horrors of terrorism or criminal violence.”

They observed that the abduction reflects a disturbing pattern of insecurity that has increasingly plagued the state in recent years. Communities in border areas such as Agwara, Shiroro, Munya, Mashegu, Rijau, and Mariga have endured repeated assaults by armed groups, with schools becoming recurring targets.

“From Tegina to Kagara and now Agwara, our children have been caught in a cycle of fear,” the lawmakers lamented. “This is not just an attack on families, it is an attack on education, on development, and on the future of Niger State.”

They warned that the state continues to grapple with threats that undermine lives, livelihoods, and food production, noting that the situation mirrors the broader security challenges facing Northern Nigeria.

The Caucus emphasized that addressing the situation requires bold and coordinated intervention from all levels of government. “We need stronger security presence, better intelligence, and more responsive operations,” they stressed. “The current structure is not delivering the results Nigerians deserve.”

They urged the Federal Government to reinforce the ongoing efforts of Governor Bago, arguing that restoring peace in Niger State is crucial for national stability. “Niger State is too strategic, geographically and agriculturally, to be left vulnerable,” the statement added. “Securing Niger is securing Nigeria.”

Reaffirming their commitment to their constituents, the lawmakers pledged to continue engaging federal authorities and to push for increased funding, manpower, and operational capacity for security agencies. They also promised to pursue legislative reforms aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s overall security architecture.

“We owe it to our people to ensure that their safety remains at the centre of national policy,” the Caucus declared. “Our resolve is firm, and our dedication is total.”

The lawmakers urged residents to remain calm, vigilant, and supportive of rescue efforts. They called on security agencies to intensify operations and ensure the perpetrators are brought to justice.

The statement concluded with prayers for the protection of Niger State, the safe return of the schoolchildren, comfort for affected families, and lasting peace across Agwara LGA and the entire country.