In a dramatic turn of events, fifty pupils abducted from St. Mary’s Secondary and Primary School, Papiri, in Agwara Local Government Area of Niger State, have escaped from captivity and safely returned to their families.
Local officials confirmed on Sunday that the pupils, who were taken by armed attackers during a raid on the school, managed to flee from their captors after several days in the bush. Details of how the escape occurred remain unclear, but community members described the return of the children as “nothing short of miraculous.”
The attack on St. Mary’s had triggered widespread fear and outrage, as families and community leaders pleaded for swift intervention from security agencies. Sources said the children found their way back in small groups, arriving exhausted and frightened but alive.
Parents and residents of Papiri gathered in large numbers as the pupils were reunited with their families. Emotional scenes unfolded as mothers wept, embraced their children, and thanked God for their safe return.
Authorities have yet to provide official updates on efforts to rescue other victims who may still be held by the kidnappers. Security operatives continue combing through surrounding forests as investigations intensify.
The state government and security agencies are expected to release further statements as operations progress.
