The chairman of Agwara Local Government Council, Niger State, Hon. Iliyasu Zakari and the Catholic Diocese of Kontagora have released the names of 50 of the abducted students from St. Marys Catholic Private School, Papiri, who escaped from captivity. Armed men attacked the school in the early hours of Friday, shooting a security guard and abducting more than 289 pupils and 14 students, along with 12 teaching and non-teaching staff. Earlier, the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in Niger State said 50 students abducted from the school have escaped Bello Gidi, the Chief Press Secretary to the chairman, who confirmed the development in a statement on Sunday said the students have reunited with their parents. This encouraging development brings relief to the community, and we appreciate the efforts of the security agencies, local vigilantes, and community members who have been working tirelessly since the incident occurred, the statement read. "Hon. Iliyasu Zakari, expresses deep gratitude to God for the safety of the children and assures the public that every necessary step is being taken to secure the release of the remaining students. The Council remains fully committed to supporting security operations until all abducted children are safely returned home. We also call on residents to remain calm, cooperate with authorities, and report any useful information that can assist ongoing rescue efforts. The Catholic Diocese of Kontagora in a statement signed by its secretary, Rev. Fr. Jatua Luka Joseph, said the students escaped between Friday and Saturday. They did not report back to the school; instead, we were able to confirm their safe return home during follow-up visits and calls from their families, the statement added.
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