Police Confirm Attack and Abduction at St. Mary’s Private Secondary School, Niger State

Authorities in Niger State have confirmed a disturbing incident at St. Mary’s Private (Catholic) Secondary School, where armed assailants attacked the premises and abducted several pupils.

According to the Niger State Police Command, the attack occurred late Thursday night when gunmen stormed the school compound, firing sporadically to instill fear before whisking away the students. The police spokesperson explained that security operatives were immediately deployed to the area, and a manhunt has been launched to rescue the abducted pupils and apprehend the perpetrators.

The incident has thrown the community into panic, with parents and residents gathering at the school in search of information about their children. Religious leaders have condemned the attack, describing it as a violation of the sanctity of education and worship, while calling on the government to intensify efforts to secure schools across the state.

This abduction adds to the growing list of school-related kidnappings in northern Nigeria, recalling earlier tragedies such as the Chibok and Dapchi abductions. Security experts warn that the repeated targeting of schools undermines education and leaves families traumatized, while emboldening criminal networks that thrive on ransom demands.

The Niger State government has assured the public that it is working closely with security agencies to ensure the safe return of the pupils. Meanwhile, the police have urged residents to remain calm and cooperate with authorities by providing useful information that could aid the rescue operation.

The attack on St. Mary’s Private Secondary School underscores the urgent need for stronger measures to protect educational institutions in Nigeria, where insecurity continues to threaten the future of young people.