Gunmen have abducted an unspecified number of students during an overnight attack on St. Mary’s Primary and Secondary School in Papiri, Agwara Local Government Area of Niger State.
The incident occurred in the early hours of Friday when armed attackers descended on the Catholic-owned boarding school.
According to local sources, the assailants arrived in large numbers, riding on more than 60 motorcycles and supported by a van.
The school’s gatekeeper was shot and severely injured during the invasion.
A resident of Agwara confirmed the incident, saying, “It happened between 3 a.m. and 4 a.m. The number of students taken is still unknown.” Another source said several teachers were also abducted.
Describing the attack, one eyewitness said the community was thrown into panic as bandits stormed the school and forcibly took away students and teachers.
“This is a deeply distressing moment for families and the entire state. These are innocent children and dedicated educators whose lives are now in danger,” the source added.
Authorities have yet to confirm the number of victims, but community members fear the figure could be high, with some speculating it may exceed 100.
Source: Channels TV
