Niger State: One of Our Catechists Has Four Children Among Those Abducted” – Bishop Yohanna

Four children of a catechist from Kontagora Diocese are among the 265 students and teachers still missing more than a week after being abducted by bandits in Niger State, the Proprietor and Bishop of the diocese, Most Reverend Bulus Dauwa Yohanna, has confirmed. Bishop Yohanna, who also chairs the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in Niger State, made the disclosure during his homily at the First Sunday of Advent Mass at St. Michael’s Catholic Cathedral in Kontagora on Sunday. He withheld the catechist’s name for security reasons but appealed for divine intervention and prayers for the safe return of the abducted pupils and staff.

Describing the incident as “tragic and unexpected,” the Bishop said, “One of our catechists has four children among those abducted. We cannot hide from the reality; the truth must be told. For over a week now, 265 children and teachers remain unaccounted for. We need them back, and I believe those responsible for our security are doing their job. Everyone is traumatized, but let us continue to pray.”

Some worshippers joined the appeal, urging state and federal authorities to take decisive action. Tina Okeke, Provincial President of Catholic Women, called for prayers from all communities, saying, “Is it an offence to send our children to school? Mothers everywhere should pray with us. We believe these innocent children will return home safely.” Residents expressed fear in Papiri, Agwara, and Kontagora, with Mrs. Elizabeth Otti noting that people now move, worship, and shop in fear, while Emmanuel Anyanwu of the Catholic Men Organisation described the community as “worried and devastated,” though hopeful for divine intervention.

Parents of some missing students had attempted a protest in Papiri on Saturday but were reportedly stopped by unidentified individuals. Meanwhile, the Niger State Police Command opened a register for parents to document missing children, including those who have returned. Police spokesperson SP Wasiu Abiodun clarified that the police initiated the exercise and denied obstructing parents, adding that documentation is ongoing and the exact number of missing children has yet to be determined.