Most Rev’d Bulus Dauwa Yohanna, Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in Niger State and Catholic Bishop of Kontogora Diocese, has confirmed that 227 students and teachers were abducted from St. Mary’s Catholic Primary and Secondary Schools in Papiri on Friday.

Yohanna said the victims included 215 students and 12 teachers.

“I just returned from the village after visiting the school and meeting with parents. We are working closely with the government and security agencies to ensure the safe rescue of our children,” he stated.

He added that some students escaped during the attack, and parents have started collecting their children as the school remains closed.

Authorities in Niger State have yet to provide an official update on the total number of abducted persons.