A Catholic educational institution in Niger State was thrown into chaos when an armed group stormed the premises in the early hours of the morning, abducting an undisclosed number of students and staff members. The attack occurred while most of the students were on the school grounds preparing for the day’s academic activities.
According to accounts from individuals present in the surrounding community, the assailants arrived in large numbers and were heavily armed. They reportedly gained access to the school by overwhelming local security personnel stationed near the premises. Witnesses described hearing sporadic gunfire as the attackers moved through the school compound, forcing their victims into waiting vehicles and motorcycles before fleeing toward a nearby forested area.
School administrators and community leaders rushed to the scene shortly after the incident. Many parents arrived in distress as news of the attack spread, seeking information about the whereabouts of their children. Staff members who managed to escape recounted moments of panic as students were forced out of classrooms and dormitories.
Local authorities have launched an immediate search-and-rescue operation, deploying security personnel to comb surrounding communities and known hideouts used by criminal groups operating in the region. Preliminary assessments indicate that the operation may be challenging due to the difficult terrain and the attackers’ movement through remote routes.
Government officials condemned the attack, describing it as unacceptable and a direct assault on the right to education and safety of young citizens. They assured families that efforts are underway to bring the abducted victims back safely and to prevent future incidents.
The affected community has called for stronger security presence around schools, especially those located in rural or vulnerable areas. Residents also appealed for urgent government intervention to ensure learning environments remain safe and protected.
As search operations continue, the atmosphere around the school remains tense, with families anxiously awaiting updates on their loved ones.