Mass Kidnappings in Nigeria: A Growing Crisis
The recent abductions of over 300 children from a Catholic school in Niger state highlight the persistent threat of kidnappings in Nigeria. Despite escapes and appeals for resolution, the crisis continues amid growing international concern.
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- 303 children and 12 teachers were abducted from St Mary’s co-education school.
- Fifty children have managed to escape, leaving 251 primary school pupils, 14 secondary students, and 12 teachers still missing.
- Abductions in Nigeria are primarily carried out by criminal gangs seeking ransom.
Escapes and Ongoing Struggle
A group has reported that fifty children abducted from St Mary’s school have escaped and reunited with their families. However, the majority remain in captivity, underscoring the ongoing challenge posed by such mass kidnappings.
- The escaped children were reunited with their families between Friday and Saturday.
- Nigerian government yet to comment on the situation.
- Calls for prayer and action continue for those still missing.
Response and International Reaction
Pope Leo XIV has called for the immediate release of the kidnapped children, while local and international voices express condemnation and concern over these events.
- Pope Leo XIV expressed sorrow for the kidnapped children and their families.
- US President Donald Trump criticized the Nigerian government’s handling of the situation.
- Security forces have identified locations where victims might be held.
Systemic Issues Behind the Kidnappings
The recurrence of kidnappings in Nigeria points to broader systemic issues, including security weaknesses and insufficient government response. These factors perpetuate a cycle of violence and abductions across the country.
- Gunmen often target remote schools with minimal security presence.
- Nigeria faces a deadly insurgency in the northeast, exacerbating the country’s security challenges.
- Civil society groups criticize the government’s focus on image over effective action.
Voices of Advocacy and Concern
Activists and international figures are increasingly vocal about the lack of effective measures to protect children and tackle the root causes of these kidnappings.
- Ayesha Yesufu, co-founder of the #BringBackOurGirls movement, blames governmental inaction.
- Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Nigerian chief of the WTO, expressed deep personal concern.
- Appeals for improved security and negotiations to ensure safe returns continue.
By Ali Musa
Axadle Times international–Monitoring.
