Niger State authorities have mobilized a joint operation of police tactical units, military personnel, and other security agencies to locate and rescue students kidnapped from St. Mary Secondary School in Papiri, Agwara Local Government Area.
The attack occurred in the early hours of Friday, when suspected terrorists reportedly abducted an undisclosed number of students and staff from the school’s hostel. The Niger State Police Command confirmed the incident, noting that the exact number of victims is still being verified.
Spokesperson SP W. A. Abiodun said security forces have deployed extensively, combing nearby forests and surrounding areas in a bid to secure the safe release of the abducted students.
Commissioner of Police, CP Adamu Abdullahi Elleman, assured the public of the command’s commitment to recovering the students unharmed. He also urged residents to remain calm and support the ongoing security operations by providing any information that could aid the rescue.
Authorities further warned that the school’s management could face scrutiny for continuing academic activities despite official directives to suspend operations in areas affected by security threats.
The incident follows a recent spate of attacks on schools in the region, highlighting ongoing security challenges in Niger State.