In a shocking series of events, more than 300 children were abducted from St Mary’s Catholic school in Niger State, Nigeria, with reports confirming that at least 50 have managed to escape their captors. This incident comes on the heels of several other alarming attacks in the region, raising significant safety concerns for students across the nation.
Details of the Kidnapping
On 21 November 2024, gunmen raided the co-educational school, taking 303 children and 12 teachers—almost half of the school’s population—amidst a climatic rise in violence throughout Nigeria. The authorities have yet to confirm the exact details, but President Bola Tinubu provided updates on social media, reporting that 51 students have been recovered thanks to the efforts of the security forces.
Government Response
- Security Efforts: President Tinubu stated, “I will not relent. Every Nigerian, in every state, has the right to safety… we will secure this nation and protect our people.” He confirmed the rescue of 38 worshippers abducted in a separate incident.
- Papal Appeal: Pope Leo XIV made a heartfelt appeal during the Angelus prayer, expressing sorrow and calling for the immediate release of all hostages, reinforcing the urgency of the dire situation.
- Escalating Violence: Since the Chibok schoolgirls were kidnapped over a decade ago, Nigeria has faced ongoing crises with mass kidnappings, largely perpetrated by criminal gangs seeking ransom.
Public Reaction
The violent spree has led to fears of school closures across many regions as parents grapple with the safety of their children. Aisha Yesufu, co-founder of the #BringBackOurGirls movement, lamented in an interview, expressing frustration that authorities seem more interested in maintaining a façade of competence than actually ensuring children’s safety.
Several children from neighbouring Kebbi state are still unaccounted for, fueling national and international outcry. As the situation develops, it has brought attention to not only the current security crisis in Nigeria but also to the systemic issues plaguing the nation’s ability to protect its most vulnerable citizens.
The events surrounding these kidnappings reflect a broader pattern of instability in Nigeria, exacerbated by militant actions, which have resulted in widespread fear and insecurity.