Five days after the Kebbi School attack, terrorists in the early hours of today (Friday, November 21) stormed St. Mary’s Papiri Private Catholic Secondary School, Papiri, in Agwara Local Government Area of Niger State, abducting over 52 students and teachers.
The attack was said to have taking place between 2:00 a.m. and 3:00 a.m.
Ahmed Abdullahi Rofia, the Head of Disaster and Relief for Agwara Local Government, confirmed the incident, alongside Bello Gidi, media aide to the Chairman of Agwara Local Government.
Secretary to the Niger State government, Alhaji Abubakar Usman, who also confirmed the incident, however, said the number of students abducted cannot be ascertained for now.
According to him, “The exact number of abducted pupils is yet to be confirmed as security agencies continue to assess the situation.”
The state commissioner of police, Adamu Abdullahi Ellema who also confirmed the incidence said, “Police tactical units, military components and other security agencies have moved to the scene, combing the forests with a view to rescue the abducted students.”
Speaking with SaharaReporters, Bello Gidi said, “Yes it’s true that bandits have kidnapped students and teachers at St. Mary’s Papiri Private Catholic Secondary School Papiri, Agwara LGA, Niger State.”
He further revealed the scale of the attack, stating, “The information that is reaching us is that they have kidnapped over 100 students and teachers. Also, it is a mixed school with boys and girls.”
The attack comes five days after terrorists stormed the Maga Comprehensive Girls’ Secondary School in Kebbi State, abducting about 25 female students and killing at least one staff member.
A school guard was also injured during the attack, which occurred around 5:52 am.
The attackers invaded the school compound while the students were preparing for morning routines, launching their assault with sporadic gunfire.
