Pope Leo Calls for Prompt Action After Large-Scale Abduction of Students and Staff in Nigerian School
Pope Leo has called on Nigerian authorities to intensify their interventions to secure the swift liberation of more than 300 students and staff abducted from a Catholic institution in what is considered one of the country’s gravest mass kidnappings in recent memory. Delivering his remarks during the Sunday address at St. Peter’s Square, the Pontiff voiced profound concern over the growing trend of abductions targeting religious communities across West and Central Africa.
The assault unfolded on Friday when heavily armed assailants invaded St. Mary’s School in northwestern Nigeria, seizing pupils, educators, and support staff. Following a thorough review, the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) announced that the total number of abducted individuals had risen to 315—significantly higher than the initial count of 227. This latest incident forms part of an escalating pattern of attacks on academic institutions, prompting the temporary shutdown of 47 schools deemed at heightened risk.
Pope Denounces Intensifying Attacks on Educational and Religious Institutions
During his closing address to congregants, Pope Leo lamented the surge in kidnappings affecting clergy, worshippers, and schoolchildren in both Nigeria and Cameroon. He underscored the emotional anguish endured by families anxiously awaiting news of their missing relatives.
“I extend a fervent plea for the immediate release of those held captive,” he declared. “I urge the responsible authorities to take decisive and timely measures that will facilitate their rescue.” He also appealed for global solidarity, stressing that places of worship and learning must remain sanctuaries of safety rather than focal points of fear.
Kidnappings Remain a Deep-Rooted Security Challenge in Northern Nigeria
Ransom-driven abductions have become entrenched in several northern regions, where armed groups—commonly referred to as bandits—frequently target schools due to weak protective measures. The latest kidnapping has amplified concerns over the vulnerability of communities, particularly those with religious affiliations.
Security experts point out that Nigeria continues to grapple with well-armed criminal syndicates operating across remote areas. International partners and human rights organizations have persistently urged the government to bolster school security and ensure the negotiated return of abducted children.
As search-and-rescue efforts intensify, Church leaders, civil society organizations, and international observers are calling for a unified and strategic response to prevent further incursions and guarantee the safe recovery of all individuals taken from St. Mary’s School.
Source: Africa Publicity