Fear and anguish have engulfed parts of Niger State as parents of the over 300 schoolchildren kidnapped from a government school have pleaded for the safe return of their children. The students were abducted earlier this week when heavily armed attackers stormed the school in the early hours of the morning, overwhelming local security personnel before herding the children into nearby forested areas.
Since the attack, distraught families have gathered daily at the school premises and local government offices, demanding urgent action from authorities. Many parents, some visibly exhausted from days without sleep, say they cannot bear the emotional toll of not knowing whether their children are safe. Several mothers broke down in tears as community leaders attempted to console them.
Security agencies, including the military, police, and local vigilante groups, have launched a coordinated search operation across difficult terrain. Officials say drones, ground troops, and intelligence teams are being deployed, but the vastness of the forest has slowed progress.
The Niger State Government has called for calm, assuring parents that rescuing the children remains the highest priority. Authorities have also appealed for public support, noting that sensitive details cannot be disclosed to avoid jeopardising ongoing operations.
Civil society groups have condemned the attack, describing it as another devastating blow to education in the northern region. They urged the federal government to implement stronger security measures in schools, including perimeter fortification, community policing, and rapid response deployment.
As the search continues, families say they will not relent until their children are safely returned.
