The Catholic Diocese of Kontagora has refuted the Niger State Government’s claim that St. Mary’s Catholic School in Papiri received a security warning prior to Friday’s abduction.
The clarification was made in a statement issued by Daniel Atori, Media Aide to Bishop Bulus Dauwa Yohanna, on behalf of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN).
According to the diocese, it was important to publicly address the allegation that the school had been alerted in advance by either the government or security agencies.
Bishop Yohanna stated that the school belonged to the Catholic Diocese and not to any individual, stressing that he was greeted with propaganda that the school was given a circular from the government.
“That is not true. We did not receive any circular. It must be an afterthought and a way to shift blame.
“I have just returned to the village after visiting the school and meeting parents to assure them of ongoing rescue efforts. In 2022, when we heard of rumours of security challenges, we shut down immediately,” he said.
The bishop said there was no way the school would ignore a government directive, dismissing reports that some reverend sisters travelled to Abuja before the attack.
According to the cleric, the Education Secretary also confirmed that he received no circular and issued none, adding that the National Association of Private Schools also received no safety directive.
