Details of the attack remain unclear, but reports indicate several students were taken during a midnight raid. Authorities confirmed the terrorists stormed the school between 2:00 am and 3:00 am, though the exact number of abducted students and staff is still being assessed.
The government disclosed it had received intelligence warning of increased threats in parts of the Niger North Senatorial District. As a precaution, it ordered the suspension of construction work and temporary closure of boarding schools in the affected zone.
Officials expressed regret that St. Mary’s School resumed academic activities without notifying or seeking clearance from the government, exposing pupils and staff to avoidable risk. Security forces have launched an investigation and search-and-rescue operations to secure the abducted children.
The government urged school proprietors, community leaders, and stakeholders to adhere strictly to security advisories, emphasizing that protecting lives, especially children, remains a top priority. The public was asked to remain calm and cooperate with security agencies by providing useful information.
This incident follows a similar attack in Kebbi State, where 25 students were kidnapped, raising concerns over worsening security in schools across the region. Recently, over 50 schools were shut down in Kwara State due to bandit threats.
In response to the escalating insecurity, the President canceled planned trips to coordinate efforts addressing the crisis.