The Bishop of Kontagora Diocese, Most Rev. Bulus Dauwa Yohanna, has expressed a complex mix of relief and sorrow following the release of some students abducted in Niger State.
While 100 children have returned home, 165 remain missing, leaving families and the community in a state of lingering anxiety.
Speaking on Sunrise Daily on Tuesday, Bishop Yohanna described the situation as “happy yet still sad,” acknowledging the joy of seeing some children freed but highlighting the continued distress over those still in captivity.
He called on the Federal Government to intensify efforts to ensure the safe return of all remaining students.
“We are grateful for the release of the 100 students, but the reality is that a large number of children are still unaccounted for
“We appeal to the authorities to maintain and even step up their efforts so that every child can return home safely and the relief can be complete, ” he said.
Bishop Yohanna encouraged parents of the missing children to remain patient and hopeful.
“For those who have yet to see their children, I urge calm and continuous prayer,” he said.
“If families have endured the past two weeks waiting, they can trust that their children will also be brought back.
”The government is committed to completing this mission, and I believe the outcome will be positive.”
He reiterated his faith that the situation would ultimately reach a peaceful resolution.
“What has happened is difficult, but we trust that God will bring everything to a satisfactory conclusion,” he added.
The incident occurred at St. Mary’s Private Catholic Primary and Secondary School in Papiri, a remote area of Niger State.
Armed men kidnapped 303 students and 12 teachers, though 50 pupils managed to escape on the first day.
Initially, 265 individuals, including 253 students and all 12 teachers, remained in captivity.
On Sunday, the government successfully secured the release of 100 students, reducing the number still held to 165.
This abduction adds to a troubling pattern of attacks on schools in the region, highlighting ongoing security challenges for students and educators.
Bishop Yohanna’s statements capture the emotional complexity of the community relief for those rescued, concern for those still missing, and an urgent call for continued government action until all children are safely reunited with their families.
