The Christian Association of Nigeria, CAN, in Niger State has stated that it has not received official confirmation from the Federal Government regarding the reported release of some pupils abducted from St. Mary’s Catholic School, Papiri. This development comes after a recent report by Channels Television suggested that the federal government had secured the freedom of around 100 pupils kidnapped in early November.

Although photographs purportedly showing some of the freed children have been circulating on social media, sparking optimism among families and community members, the Niger State CAN Chairman and proprietor of the school, Bulus Yohanna, said the association is still awaiting confirmation from authorities. Through his media aide, Daniel Atori, Mr Yohanna expressed the community’s hopefulness but emphasized the lack of official updates from the government.

The abduction of the pupils from the Catholic school in Papiri had sparked widespread outrage and renewed concerns about insecurity in Niger State and other parts of the North. The incident has led to continued appeals from families of the victims for swift government intervention to ensure the safe return of all the children. The reported release of some pupils has been met with cautious optimism, with the community eagerly awaiting official confirmation.

According to the statement issued by the Niger State CAN, “It will be a thing of joy if some of our children have been released. We have been praying and waiting for their return. If it is true, then it is cheering news.” However, the association stressed that it has not been officially notified and remains uncertain about the situation.

The insecurity situation in Niger State and other parts of the North has been a longstanding concern, with repeated cases of kidnappings and abductions. The federal government’s efforts to address the issue have been under scrutiny, with many calling for more effective measures to ensure the safety and security of citizens, particularly children. As the situation continues to unfold, families and community members remain hopeful for the safe return of all the abducted pupils.