11/22/2025
NEW WAVE OF INSECURITY: A new wave of insecurity hit Niger State on Friday as armed men launched a midnight attack on St. Mary’s Catholic Primary and Secondary School, located in Papiri, Agwara Local Government Area, abducting an unspecified number of students, teachers, and a security personnel.
The attack, which occurred between 1:00 a.m. and 3:00 a.m., was confirmed by the Catholic Diocese of Kontagora, whose officials described the incident as “deeply distressing and unacceptable.” A memo released by the Diocese stated that the gunmen overpowered the school’s security before whisking away the victims into nearby forests.
Reports indicate that a security guard on duty was shot during the invasion. His condition remains unclear, though local authorities say he has been taken for medical treatment.
The Niger State Police Command has confirmed the abduction but noted that the exact number of victims is still being compiled due to the chaotic nature of the incident. According to police spokespersons, a joint tactical team comprising police, military personnel, and vigilante groups has been deployed to launch a coordinated search-and-rescue operation across suspected escape routes.
Reacting to the crisis, the Niger State Government condemned the attack and revealed that the school resumed academic activities without obtaining security clearance, despite earlier warnings triggered by heightened threats in the region.
The government described the incident as “avoidable,” urging all institutions in vulnerable areas to comply with safety directives.
Follow SkadekTV for more news
