How Niger Governor Finally Confirmed 315 as Papiri School Abduction Victims, Promises Inclusion for Host Community
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Indications have emerged that twenty-two days after the harrowing abduction of pupils and teachers from St. Mary’s Catholic Private Primary and Secondary School, Papiri, in Agwarra Local Government Area of Niger State, Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago has, for the first time, publicly acknowledged that no fewer than 315 persons were taken during the attack, bringing official confirmation to an incident that had sparked widespread outrage, anxiety and conflicting narratives across the state.
The governor’s admission marks a significant reversal from earlier positions in which the state government had downplayed the incident, with claims in several fora that no abduction occurred or that the reported figures were exaggerated. The fresh acknowledgment came on Friday in Minna during the inauguration of newly appointed commissioners, local government chairmen, vice chairmen and board members at the Government House.
Addressing the gathering, Governor Bago solemnly observed a minute of silence in honour of parents of the abducted Papiri students who reportedly died from shock and trauma following the incident. He described the abduction as a painful episode in the life of the state but expressed optimism that the ordeal would soon come to an end.
Recalling the events, the governor stated that the state woke up nearly three weeks ago to the terrifying news of the abduction of children and their teachers from Papiri, confirming that 315 persons were indeed affected. He disclosed that security efforts had so far led to the rescue of 100 victims, while assuring that sustained operations were ongoing to secure the release of those still in captivity and reunite them with their families.
While reaffirming his administration’s commitment to restoring peace and security, Governor Bago also made a political pledge to the affected community, promising to appoint indigenes of Papiri into various positions within his government as part of efforts to promote inclusion and heal the wounds left by the tragedy. According to him, engaging people from the community in governance would strengthen trust and reaffirm the government’s presence in the area.
In an emotionally charged address, the governor offered prayers for the state and the abducted victims, calling for divine intervention to rescue Niger State from insecurity and restore lasting peace. He appealed for a collective resolve to abandon old ways and embrace what he described as a “new Niger,” where opportunities would not be limited by background or circumstance.
He stressed that the painful incident should serve as a turning point, urging the people to retrace their steps and work together to build a state where merit, unity and justice prevail. Expressing gratitude for the resilience and unity displayed by residents despite the tragedy, Governor Bago thanked God that Niger State remained united in the face of adversity.
Earlier in the ceremony, the Secretary to the State Government, Alhaji Abubakar Usman Gawu, explained that the newly inaugurated appointees and elected local government chairmen emerged based on their capabilities, experience and proven track records. He charged them to quickly settle into their offices and focus on delivering tangible dividends of democracy to the people.
Gawu specifically urged the appointees to prioritise the strengthening of security architecture across the state, while also paying close attention to the education and healthcare sectors, which he described as critical to the overall development and stability of Niger State, especially in the aftermath of the Papiri abduction.
The oath of office was administered by the Chief Judge of Niger State, Justice Halima Abdulmalik, who was represented at the event by Justice Amina of Court 6, Minna.
As the state government’s position on the Papiri abduction becomes clearer 22 days after the incident, many Nigerians will be watching closely to see how swiftly the remaining victims are rescued and how effectively the promises of inclusion, security and renewed governance are translated into action on the ground.
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