Bandits have abducted an unspecified number of students from St. John Primary and Secondary School in Papiri Ward, Agwara Local Government Area of Niger State. The attack reportedly occurred around 2am on Friday, though full details are still emerging.
The Niger State Government has confirmed the incident and disclosed that it had previously ordered all boarding schools and construction activities in the area to shut down due to heightened security threats.
In a statement issued by the Secretary to the State Government, Alhaji Abubakar Usman, the government expressed shock that the school resumed academic activities despite a clear directive to remain closed.
According to the statement, authorities had received intelligence indicating an increased threat level across parts of Niger North Senatorial District. In response, the state suspended construction work and directed all boarding schools in the affected communities to close temporarily as a precaution.
Usman said: “The Niger State Government received with deep sadness the disturbing news of the kidnapping of pupils from St. Mary’s School in Agwara Local Government Area. The exact number of abducted pupils is yet to be confirmed as security agencies continue to assess the situation.
“This unfortunate incident comes despite prior intelligence report obtained by the government indicating an increased threat level in parts of Niger North Senatorial District.”
He added that the directive for schools to shut down was clear and meant to protect students and staff.
“Regrettably, St. Mary’s School proceeded to reopen and resume academic activities without notifying or seeking clearance from the State Government, thereby exposing pupils and the staff to avoidable risk,” he said.
Security agencies have since been deployed to the area, and updates are expected as investigations continue.
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