The Bishop of Kontagora Diocese, Most Rev. Bulus Yohanna, has confirmed the release of schoolchildren abducted in Niger State.
Yohanna, who is the proprietor of St. Mary’s Private Catholic Primary and Secondary School, said the students were freed after weeks in captivity following their abduction alongside some teachers.
He disclosed that Niger State Governor, Umaru Bago, personally contacted him to convey the news of the students’ release.
The bishop said the freed students and their teachers were expected to arrive in Minna later on Sunday, where they would be formally received by the governor at the Government House.
The confirmation was conveyed in a brief statement issued by the bishop’s media aide, Dan Atori.
Meanwhile, the Presidency said no abducted child was left behind, with a spokesman to the President, Sunday Dare, stating, “Another 130 abducted Niger state pupils released, none left in captivity.”
The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, also confirmed the development, praising the security agencies for their role in ensuring the safe return of the schoolchildren.