The Catholic Diocese of Kontagora has confirmed the release and reunification of all abducted pupils and staff of St. Mary’s Catholic Primary and Secondary Schools, Papiri, in Agwara Local Government Area of Niger State.
This was contained in a press statement signed by the Bishop of Kontagora, Most Rev. Bulus Dauwa Yohanna and released on Thursday
The Diocese revealed that a total of 230 children and staff members were verified to have been abducted and later rescued following a thorough reconciliation and verification exercise.
The cleric added that the abducted persons comprised 12 staff members, 14 students, and 204 pupils, all of whom had regained their freedom through the concerted efforts of the Federal Government and security agencies.
The Diocese confirmed that all rescued children had been successfully reunited with their respective families, with no individuals currently reported missing.
It acknowledged that the discrepancies recorded during the initial headcount were due to the chaotic nature of the incident,
The Diocese concluded by committing all affected families to God for healing, restoration, and lasting peace, while thanking all individuals whose efforts contributed to the safe return of the pupils and staff.
Edited by Favour Owonibi.