By Cross Udo, Abuja
The Presidency of Nigeria has confirmed the release of the remaining 130 schoolchildren abducted from St. Mary’s Primary and Secondary School, Papiri, Niger State, declaring that no child remains in captivity.
The confirmation was announced on Sunday by presidential spokesman, Sunday Dare, via his official X (formerly Twitter) handle.
“Another 130 abducted Niger State pupils released, none left in captivity,” Dare wrote.
The release brings relief to families and residents of Papiri community following days of fear and uncertainty after gunmen attacked the school and abducted pupils. With the latest development, all the children taken from the school have now regained their freedom.
Reacting, Ogun State Governor and Chairman of the Southern Governors’ Forum, Dapo Abiodun, welcomed the development, describing it as a triumph over criminal elements.
In a brief statement issued on Sunday, Abiodun said the release of the remaining students, coming after the earlier rescue of 100 others, reflected President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s commitment to safeguarding lives and tackling insecurity.
He commended security agencies for their efforts and urged them to ensure that those responsible for the abduction are arrested and prosecuted to serve as a deterrent.
Abiodun added that the rescue would allow the affected families to reunite and celebrate the Yuletide season after a traumatic ordeal.
If you want it even leaner for the front page, or want the Ogun reaction dropped to one sentence, say the word.
