All schoolchildren and staff abducted from St. Mary’s Private Catholic Primary and Secondary School in Niger State have been successfully released, according to multiple official sources, bringing relief to families and the wider public.
The confirmation was made by the Bishop of Kontagora Diocese, Most Rev. Bulus Yohanna, who is also the proprietor of the affected school.
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The bishop said he received direct communication from Niger State Governor Umaru Bago confirming the development.
He said, “I can confirm that all the children and their teachers have been released. The governor personally reached out to inform me of their freedom.”
The abduction occurred during a recent attack on the school, where terrorists kidnapped more than 300 students along with members of staff, sparking nationwide concern and renewed calls for improved security around educational institutions.
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According to Bishop Yohanna, arrangements have been made for the released students and teachers to be transported to Minna, the state capital, later today. They are expected to be officially received at the Government House.
A media aide to the bishop, Dan Atori, also verified the development in a brief statement, confirming that none of the abductees remains in captivity.
The release was further corroborated by the presidency. Presidential spokesman Sunday Dare announced the news on the social media platform X, stating:
“Another 130 abducted Niger State pupils released, none left in captivity.”
In a separate statement, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, confirmed that all the children had returned safely. He praised the efforts of Nigeria’s security agencies for their role in securing the release.
“We commend the security agencies for their dedication and professionalism in ensuring the safe return of all the abducted children,” Idris said.
The development has been welcomed across the country, as parents, religious leaders, and government officials expressed relief over the safe return of the students and staff after days of uncertainty.
