The total number of people abducted from St Mary’s Catholic Primary and Secondary Schools in Papiri, Niger State, has risen from 227 to 315, comprising 303 students and 12 teachers.

The update was provided by Most Rev. Bulus Dauwa Yohanna, Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Niger State chapter, and Catholic Bishop of Kontagora Diocese, following a verification exercise and census.

Rev. Yohanna refuted claims that the school had received prior warning from the government, describing such reports as propaganda aimed at shifting blame.

“After leaving the school, we conducted further verification and discovered that 88 additional students had been captured while trying to escape. Some parents whose children were thought safe raised concerns, prompting a full census,” he said.

The school has a total of 629 students: 430 in primary and 199 in secondary school.

Addressing prior-warning claims, Rev. Yohanna said:

“We did not receive any circular from the government. This appears to be an afterthought and an attempt to shift blame. In 2022, we acted immediately upon hearing rumours of security threats, without waiting for official notice.”

He clarified that the school is owned by the Catholic Diocese, not individuals, and dismissed allegations that any Reverend Sisters traveled to Abuja regarding the matter.

“Anyone making misleading statements should either provide evidence or withdraw their claims. Our engagement with the Education Secretary and the National Association of Private Schools confirmed that no circular or verbal warning was issued,” he added.

Rev. Yohanna called on all stakeholders to remain calm and prayerful, assuring that the school is working closely with security operatives, community leaders, and government authorities to secure the safe return of all abductees.