Nigerian authorities have announced the successful release of 130 schoolchildren and teachers who were kidnapped from a Catholic boarding school in Niger State, a significant outcome in a series of troubling kidnappings that have plagued the region.
The abduction occurred on November 21 when over 250 individuals, including students and staff of St Mary's Catholic School in Papiri, were taken by unknown assailants. Following the initial chaos, around 100 children were released earlier this month, leaving a remaining number unaccounted for until now.
The federal government hailed this development as a 'moment of triumph and relief,' emphasizing that no student remains in captivity.
Police Chief Adamu Abdullahi Elleman noted that the rescued individuals would undergo examinations by security personnel before returning to their families at the school.
Local bishop Bulus Dauwa Yohanna corroborated the news, stating that the governor had informed him regarding the students' release. Parents in the area expressed immense joy at the news, with many expected to gather at the school to celebrate the return of their children.
Following previous releases, spokesperson for the presidency, Bayo Onanuga, confirmed that the total number of freed students had risen to 230, although initial reports cast uncertainty on the exact count of those abducted.
The nature of the rescue operation remains undisclosed, as officials have not confirmed if a ransom was involved. Speculation about the involvement of criminal gangs in such kidnappings for ransom continues to raise concerns about safety in educational institutions in Nigeria.
Recent kidnappings have spotlighted broader security issues. While attackers target schools and places of worship, the Nigerian government, under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has pledged to enhance security protocols in educational settings to ensure safe learning environments for students.
