“Confusion and Tears: CAN Says ‘No Child Returned’ Despite Federal Government Release Claims!”
By Paul Ebi
Shock, anxiety and uncertainty gripped communities in Niger State on Monday after news broke that 100 out of the 315 abducted pupils of St. Mary’s Private Catholic School, Papiri, had purportedly regained freedom — yet, church authorities insist they have received no official confirmation whatsoever.
In a strongly worded statement, the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in Niger State declared that the joy that should accompany such news has been replaced with utter confusion, as neither parents nor community leaders have been informed of any verified release.
Bishop Bulus Yohanna, chairman of CAN in the state, admitted that while the news was circulating across national media platforms, no tangible confirmation had reached those anxiously awaiting their children.
> “It will be a thing of joy if some of our children have been released. We have been praying and waiting for their return,” Yohanna stated.“If it is true, then it is cheering news. However, we are not officially aware and have not been duly notified.”
The Bishop stressed that the families continue to wait with pounding hearts, clinging to hope and prayer for the full return of all abducted students.
THE DARK BACKDROP
The nightmare began on November 21, 2025, when heavily armed bandits stormed St. Mary’s School, abducting 315 people — 303 students and 12 teachers. Within the first 24 hours, 50 students escaped, sprinting through forests and returning to their villages to emotional reunions.
The remaining captives, believed to be held deep in the bush, have sparked nationwide anxiety and international concern.
GOVERNMENT BREAKS SILENCE, BUT MYSTERY REMAINS
Last week, National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, visited the traumatised school community, assuring worried parents that the children were alive and would soon return.
On Sunday, reports swept through media channels that 100 kidnapped students had been freed, with Channels Television even confirming Federal Government involvement.
But on the ground, among the weeping mothers, exhausted fathers and prayerful clergy — there is no sign the children have arrived.
HOPE MIXED WITH PAIN
CAN’s tone reflects the bittersweet dilemma of a community caught between hope and heartbreak.
> “We hope and pray it’s true,” the Bishop affirmed, “and we look forward to when the remaining will be released.”
The government insists progress has been made. Communities say they will only believe when they see their children.
A nation watches — breath held, hearts pounding — as the truth of whether 100 children have been freed remains shrouded in mystery.
