A grieving father has tragically passed away from a heart attack following the abduction of his three children by bandits in Niger State. Rev. John Hayab, Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in Kaduna State, revealed this heartbreaking incident during a recent interview.
The victim, identified as Mr. Anthony, succumbed to the shock shortly after gunmen raided St Mary's Catholic School in Papiri, Niger State, on November 21, 2025. The attackers abducted over 300 schoolchildren, leaving families in deep distress. While around 50 students managed to escape and return home, more than 265 remain missing.
Rev. Hayab highlighted the immense trauma faced by parents, noting that many are too frightened to speak openly about the ordeal. He criticized the government's security priorities, stating that forces often protect VIPs and banks rather than vulnerable communities and schools. This incident underscores the ongoing surge in abductions across northern Nigeria, reminiscent of past tragedies like the Chibok kidnappings.
In response, President Bola Tinubu has directed police to withdraw from VIP duties to bolster community protection. However, Hayab urged for more effective measures to combat terrorism and ensure the safe return of the abducted children.
The Christian Association of Nigeria calls on all stakeholders to prioritize school security and provide support to affected families. This tragedy serves as a stark reminder of the human cost of insecurity in the region.