In a distressing escalation of Nigeria's security crisis, more than 300 students and teachers were abducted from St Mary's School in Niger state by armed assailants. This incident, one of the largest mass kidnappings in the country's history, has heightened fears across the nation and prompted urgent government action.

Mass Abduction Details

The abduction occurred early Friday morning when gunmen stormed the Catholic boarding school, taking 303 students and 12 teachers, according to the Christian Association of Nigeria. This revised figure emerged after a thorough verification process, surpassing initial estimates and recalling the infamous Chibok abduction of 2014.

Witnesses described a chaotic scene as the attackers moved through the dormitories for nearly three hours, leaving families and communities in shock. "Everybody is weak... it took everybody by surprise," said Dominic Adamu, a parent whose daughters were fortunately not among the abducted.

Government Response and Security Measures

In response to the crisis, President Bola Tinubu has canceled his international trips, including a planned visit to the G20 summit, to focus on domestic security concerns. The Nigerian government has ordered the closure of over 40 federal colleges and several public schools in affected states as a precautionary measure.

Niger state's governor, Mohammed Umar Bago, emphasized the ongoing efforts by security agencies to rescue the abducted individuals. Meanwhile, the national education ministry has mandated the closure of 47 boarding schools across the country to prevent further incidents.

Impact and International Reactions

The recent abductions have sparked international attention, with U.S. officials urging Nigeria to take decisive action against the violence. The situation has also fueled domestic anger, with citizens demanding more robust measures to combat the rampant banditry and ransom kidnappings plaguing the nation.

Human Impact

The human toll of these abductions is profound, as families anxiously await news of their loved ones. A tearful woman recounted the kidnapping of her young nieces, aged six and 13, expressing a desperate wish for their safe return. Such personal stories underscore the urgent need for effective security solutions.