At least 50 students have escaped from kidnappers after being abducted from St Mary’s Catholic School in Papiri, Niger State, Nigeria.
The pupils fled their captors between Friday and Saturday and have since reunited with their families, according to Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) chairman, Bishop Bulus Dauwa Yohanna.
Despite the escape, the crisis is far from over: about 253 students and 12 staff members are reportedly still being held by the kidnappers. Students are both male and female, with some being as young as ten. CAN has raised the number taken originally to 315, including students and teachers.
In his statement, Bishop Bulus, Catholic bishop of the Kontagora Diocese, appealed for continued support, saying: “As much as we receive the return of these 50 children, I urge you all to continue in your prayers for the rescue and safe return of the remaining victims.”
He added: “We urge everyone to remain calm and prayerful as we collaborate with security agencies, community leaders, and government authorities to ensure the safe and swift return of all abductees.”
Pope Leo has publicly responded, calling for the immediate release of all hostages. Nigerian authorities are facing increasing pressure to secure their release.