The Niger State chapter of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has revised the number of abducted persons from St. Mary’s Catholic Primary and Secondary School, Papiri, Agwarra LGA, raising the figure from 227 to 315.
The updated tally, released in a fresh statement on Friday by CAN Chairman and Catholic Bishop of Kontagora Diocese, Bulus Yohanna, followed what he described as a “thorough verification exercise and final census”.
Gunmen had invaded the school between 2 a.m. and 3 a.m. on November 21, whisking away dozens of pupils, students and teachers during the midnight attack.
Yohanna said the revised figure was reached after families and the school traced students who were earlier believed to have escaped.
“After leaving the school, we made calls and enquiries on those we initially thought had escaped, only to discover that 88 more students were captured after trying to flee,” he said.
According to CAN, the school has a total population of 629 learners — 430 in the primary and 199 in the secondary section.
In a statement issued by Daniel Atori, spokesperson to Bishop Yohanna, CAN dismissed reports that the school ignored prior warnings from government officials or security agencies.
“We did not receive any circular or warning. In 2022, when there were rumours of security challenges, we shut down immediately without waiting for any government directive,” the bishop stated.
He described the circulating reports as “propaganda” aimed at shifting responsibility away from those tasked with securing the region.
Yohanna also debunked claims that the reverend sisters travelled to Abuja in connection with the incident.
“There is no truth in that report. Let those making these allegations provide evidence,” he said
The bishop assured parents and the wider public that CAN was working closely with the government and security agencies to secure the safe release of all abductees.
“We call on everyone to remain calm and prayerful as we continue to collaborate with all relevant authorities for a quick and safe return of our children and teachers,” he added.