The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in Niger State on Sunday confirmed that 50 students abducted from St. Mary’s Private Catholic Primary and Secondary Schools in Papiri, Agwara Local Government Area, have escaped from captivity.
In a statement, Bulus Dauwa Yohanna, chairman of the Niger State chapter of CAN and Catholic bishop of Kontagora Diocese, said the pupils regained their freedom between Friday and Saturday and quietly returned to their families.
Earlier reports had indicated that over 300 students and staff remained in the hands of kidnappers. In response, Pope Leo XIV urged for their immediate release.
Speaking at the Angelus prayer on Sunday, the Pope said:
“I learned with immense sadness the news of the kidnappings of priests, faithful, and students in Nigeria and Cameroon. I make a heartfelt appeal for the immediate release of the hostages.
” Let us pray for these brothers and sisters and that churches and schools may always and everywhere remain places of safety and hope.”
The CAN had earlier described the attacks as deeply troubling and expressed solidarity with the victims’ families. Security agencies continue efforts to secure the release of the remaining hostages.
