November 24, 2025 | Paul Samasumo, Vatican News
In an update titled “On the kidnapping of 315 pupils, students, and staff of St. Mary’s Catholic Primary and Secondary School, Papiri,” Diocesan Secretary Fr. Jatau Luka Joseph emphasised that the information provided by the Diocese of Kontagora aims to promote complete transparency.
Diocesan officials also confirmed that they have verified the figures and information through direct contact with and visits to the parents and relations of the escaped children.
“As of Sunday, 23 November 2025, we wish to inform the public that fifty (50) pupils who were previously abducted have successfully escaped and reunited with their parents. This encouraging development comes just days after bandits attacked our school and abducted a total of 315 individuals comprising 289 pupils (primary school), 14 secondary school students and 12 staff members. The pupils who escaped did so between Friday and Saturday,” said Fr. Jatau Luka Joseph.
Complete transparency7
Fr Jatau added, “For clarity, out of 315 individuals initially reported abducted, 265 remain in captivity. This figure includes 239 pupils, 14 students and 12 staff members who are yet to return. We are providing these details to ensure complete transparency as we continue to work closely with parents, guardians, security agencies and relevant authorities to verify and update records,” the Diocesan Secretary explained.
Speaking to local media, Diocese of Kontagora Bishop, Bulus Dauwa Yohanna, called on everyone to remain calm and pray for the safe and swift return of all abducted individuals.
“While we rejoice over the return of these 50 children who escaped, I urge everyone to continue praying for the rescue and safe return of the remaining victims,” said Bishop Yohanna.
A list of the 50 children who escaped from their kidnappers has since been made public.
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