Abuja – The 130 students who had been held hostage in the attack on St. Mary’s Catholic School in Papiri on November 21 have been released. The release took place yesterday, Sunday, December 21, and the rescued individuals have been taken to Minna, the capital of Niger State. “We are profoundly grateful to the Federal Government of Nigeria, the Niger State Government, the security agencies, and all other partners whose efforts and interventions contributed to the safe release of the victims,” stated the press release from the Diocese of Kontagora, sent to Fides. “We also extend our sincere appreciation to the parents, guardians, clergy, religious communities, humanitarian organizations, and the wider public for their prayers, support, and solidarity throughout this challenging period,” the statement continued, signed by Father Jatau Luka Joseph, diocesan secretary.
Authorities have not revealed how the release occurred, whether ransoms were paid, or who was responsible for the mass kidnapping. In its statement, the Diocese of Kontagora emphasized that “further updates and additional information, as may be necessary, will be communicated to the public in a timely manner through appropriate and authorized channels to ensure accuracy, transparency, and clarity in all official statements. The Diocese remains committed to keeping all stakeholders fully informed as the situation develops and verification processes are completed.” “The Catholic Diocese of Kontagora remains committed to the protection, welfare, and safety of all pupils, students, and staff, and will continue to collaborate with all relevant authorities to ensure a secure and conducive learning environment,” the statement concludes.
An initial group of 100 students was released on December 7 , while approximately 50 young people managed to escape on their own during the kidnapping .
Catholic Daily - Catholic news and inspiration. Brought to you by Queen of Peace Productions.
Leave a Reply
You must be logged in to post a comment.