The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has confirmed that a staggering 303 pupils and students have been abducted from St. Mary Private Primary and Secondary Schools in Papiri, Agwara Local Government Area. This shocking incident, which unfolded in the dead of night last Friday, has sent shockwaves through the community and raised critical questions about security measures in the region.

The chaos erupted when armed assailants invaded St. Mary’s Catholic School, initially leaving reports of 215 missing pupils and 12 teachers. However, through a so-called “verification exercise,” the numbers have soared to an alarming total of 315,including those brave teachers caught in the crossfire of this tragic event.

Most Rev. Bulus Yohanna, the chairman of CAN in Niger State, laid bare the grim details in a statement issued through his media aide, Daniel Atori. Parents and community members are left reeling as they learn that 88 more children were seized while attempting to escape,a terrifying twist that no one saw coming. “We discovered that parents, whose children we believed were safe, had been left in the dark,” Atori stated, underscoring the chaotic aftermath of the attack.

Furthermore, the Bishop emphatically denied any suggestions that the school had received prior government warnings or advisories regarding security risks. “No circular or warning was received from the government or security agencies,” he declared, dismissing such claims as attempts to deflect blame. This raises eyebrows about the accountability of local authorities in protecting vulnerable communities.

St. Mary’s School, owned by the Catholic Diocese, is under immense scrutiny, especially with rumors circulating about the supposed involvement of Reverend Sisters traveling to Abuja. “Anyone making such claims should provide proof or retract the statements,” the Bishop urged, as he defended the integrity of the school’s management amidst these shocking allegations.

As the community grapples with this horrific event, the Bishop has called for calm and unity, encouraging everyone to stay prayerful. “We will continue to work closely with security operatives, community leaders, and relevant authorities to ensure the safe return of all abductees,” he stated, leaving many to wonder if enough is being done to protect the innocent children of this region.

This appalling incident has opened a floodgate of questions regarding safety protocols in schools and the effectiveness of government responses to such urgent threats.