Eyewitness Narrates How Some Catholic School Students Escaped from Bandits in Niger

An eyewitness has narrated how some students of St. Mary’s Catholic School in Papiri, Agwara Local Government Area of Niger State escaped from their abductors.

The attack happened in the early hours of today, Friday, November 21, 2025, shortly after armed bandits stormed the school and abducted several students.

Bandits Strike Before Dawn

The attack reportedly occurred around 2 a.m. This incident comes only four days after a similar attack in Maga, Kebbi State, where 24 female students of a secondary school were abducted.

Witnesses said the bandits arrived in large numbers and rode motorcycles into the school compound.

A local source, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said the attackers began shooting immediately they entered the premises to frighten students and any security personnel.

According to the eyewitness, the bandits operated for several hours without challenge before snatching a vehicle to move the abducted students. Others were taken away on motorcycles.

The witness explained that the stolen vehicle broke down a few metres from the school and was abandoned by the attackers.

While the bandits tried to find another vehicle, some students managed to escape. Others reportedly escaped by scaling the school fence. The total number of abducted students remains unknown.

Government Confirms Incident

The Secretary to the Niger State Government, Alhaji Abubakar Usman, confirmed the attack. He said the government was still verifying the number of pupils abducted.

According to him, “the exact number of abducted students is yet to be confirmed as security agencies continue to assess the situation.”

He added that earlier intelligence reports had warned of increased threats in parts of Niger North, prompting government orders for schools in the area to close temporarily.

He said St. Mary’s School reopened without clearance, exposing pupils and staff to risk. Usman noted that security agencies have launched full investigations and search-and-rescue operations.

Police Begin Rescue Efforts

The Niger State Commissioner of Police, Adamu Abdullahi Ellema, also confirmed the attack.

He 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.”

Catholic Diocese Condemns Attack

The Catholic Diocese of Kontagora condemned the attack. A statement issued by the Diocesan Secretary, Father Jatau Luka, said the incident happened between 1 a.m. and 3 a.m.

He said efforts were ongoing with security forces, community leaders and government officials to secure the victims’ release.

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The Diocese urged the public to remain calm, support security efforts and pray for the safe return of the abducted students.

Similar Attacks in the Past

A similar attack happened years ago at Government Science College, Kagara, where students and teachers were kidnapped before being rescued during a security operation.