The National Security Adviser (NSA), Nuhu Ribadu, has visited Kontagora in Niger State to review the circumstances surrounding the recent abduction of students and staff from St. Mary’s Catholic School, Papiri, in Agwara Local Government Area.
Ribadu, accompanied by the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Bernard Dodo, and the Director of State Security (DSS), held a closed-door meeting with the school’s proprietor, Most Reverend Bulus Dauwa Yohanna, and the Principal, Mrs. Cecilia Gwan. Both briefed him with updates and official reports on the incident.
He also met with some of the victims’ parents at St. Michael’s Cathedral, Kontagora, where he assured them that the abducted students and staff would soon be rescued safely.
Speaking during the visit, Ribadu reportedly said “the children are doing fine and will be back soon”.
“This is a very solemn and difficult moment for us, especially after hearing from some of the parents and all of you. However, we take responsibility because it is our duty to protect you,” a statement by the diocese quoted Ribadu as saying.
“This is a directive from Mr. President that we must come and visit you. Mr. President is in pain; he is in sorrow just like all of us. He stopped everything he was doing; he was supposed to travel but he suspended his journey.”
The NSA noted that the government would no longer tolerate the activities of criminals terrorising Nigerians.
“Enough is enough. We will not be relentless in our efforts. We are all under attack. Let us not allow bad people to divide us; let us not allow evil to get into us,” he said.
Ribadu said international partners are rallying behind Nigeria in the fight against terrorism and banditry.
“Many good people from all over the world are coming to support us, including the United States of America,” he added.
“We appreciate everyone, especially European countries like France, the United Kingdom and a couple of others. The whole world is coming together to stop and defeat this evil which has been going on in Nigeria for two decades.”
On November 21, armed men attacked the school and abducted 315 people — including 303 students and 12 teachers.
Subsequently, the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in Niger state said 50 students abducted from the school had escaped from captivity.
