The Niger State Government has reacted sharply to the abduction of pupils from St. Mary’s School in the Papiri area of Agwara Local Government Area, calling the development a tragic consequence of ignoring earlier security warnings.
In a statement released by the Secretary to the State Government, Alh. Abubakar Usman, the government said it received the news of the kidnapping with “deep sadness,” noting that the number of abducted pupils remains uncertain as security teams continue their assessments.
Razornewsng.com recalls that Niger State had issued a strong security advisory following credible intelligence pointing to heightened threats across Niger North. The advisory suspended construction activities and ordered the temporary closure of all boarding schools in the vulnerable zone.
However, the government revealed that St. Mary’s School proceeded to reopen without clearing with authorities, a decision described as reckless and one that exposed pupils to avoidable danger.
Security agencies have now launched a coordinated search-and-rescue operation, with the government maintaining constant communication with all relevant formations to ensure the safe return of the children.
The statement warned school owners and community leaders against disregarding government security directives, stressing that such negligence puts innocent lives at risk.
Usman urged residents to stay calm and volunteer information that may assist security operatives in the ongoing rescue mission.
Tension in Niger: Government Slams School for Ignoring Security Alert as Pupils Are Abducted in Agwara
