Schoolchildren Abductions: A Crisis in Niger State

In Niger state, Nigeria, gunmen abducted 303 schoolchildren and 12 teachers from St Mary's School. The abductions highlight security challenges, with no group claiming responsibility. Authorities have deployed tactical teams for rescue efforts. The situation is part of an ongoing pattern of armed groups targeting schools in Nigeria.

A wave of insecurity has once again rocked Nigeria as 303 schoolchildren and 12 teachers were taken hostage by gunmen at St Mary's School, located in Nigeria's north-central Niger state. This incident marks a grim continuation of school kidnappings plaguing the region.

The Christian Association of Nigeria updated the initial count of abducted schoolchildren from 215 to 303 after a thorough verification exercise. The attack in Niger state follows a similar abduction incident in Kebbi state, raising concerns over the ongoing trend of targeting educational institutions.

Despite the gravity of the situation, no group has claimed responsibility. Authorities are working with local hunters, deploying tactical squads to ensure the safe return of the victims. These kidnappings underscore Nigeria's broader security challenges, impacting both Christians and Muslims across the nation.

(With inputs from agencies.)