50 students escape captivity after abduction from Catholic school in Nigeria
Kidnappings for ransom have become an increasing threat to schools in Nigeria, particularly in the north-central and northwestern regions.
At least 50 students have managed to escape captivity after being kidnapped from a Catholic school in Niger State, north-central Nigeria, last week.
The attack on St. Mary's Catholic School occurred on Friday, when armed assailants abducted 303 pupils and 12 teachers. The attackers reportedly stormed the campus in a coordinated raid, but as of now, no group has claimed responsibility.
Nigerian authorities have yet to provide updates on the ongoing rescue efforts, leaving families and the local community anxiously awaiting news of the remaining captives.
Reports indicate that the children, aged between 10 and 18, managed to escape individually between Friday and Saturday. They have since been safely reunited with their families.
Reverend Bulus Yohanna, chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in Niger State, confirmed the development.
“We were able to ascertain this when we decided to contact and visit some parents,” Yohanna said, according to the South Florida Sun Sentinel.
Raid in northwestern Nigeria
This incident occurred just days after a separate raid in northwestern Nigeria.
Armed men attacked a secondary school in Maga, Kebbi State, about 170 kilometres away, abducting 25 schoolgirls. While one of the captives has escaped, 24 remain missing, underscoring a growing pattern of attacks on schools in the region.
Kidnappings for ransom have become an increasing threat to schools in Nigeria, particularly in the north-central and northwestern regions. Armed gangs exploit the region's weak security, leaving parents and teachers fearful for their children's safety.
In response to the abductions, Pope Leo called for the immediate release of the hostages.
“I feel deep sorrow, especially for the many boys and girls who have been abducted, and for their anguished families. I make a heartfelt appeal that the hostages be immediately released, and I urge the competent authorities to take appropriate and timely actions to ensure their liberation,” the Pope said after Mass in St. Peter's Square.
“Let us pray for these brothers and sisters of ours, that churches and schools may always and everywhere remain places of safety and hope,” he added.
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