The announcement of the safe return of 100 abducted students of Papiri Catholic School in Niger State has sparked a nationwide wave of mixed reactions, with many Nigerians taking to social media to express both relief and deep frustration over the handling of the crisis.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, in a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, commended security agencies for their efforts and charged them to intensify operations to rescue the remaining 115 students and teachers still held captive.
While the President described the return of the children as “a moment of joy,” promising that “all abducted Nigerians must be rescued and brought back home safely,” online commentators insist that the government’s narrative leaves too many unanswered questions.
“How Were They Released?” Nigerians Demand Answers
Shortly after the Presidency’s announcement, X (Twitter) users flooded the platform with reactions—many expressing gratitude for the students’ return, but also demanding clarity on the circumstances surrounding their release.
One user, @legendarytunde, questioned the official account:
“No arrest was made. No gun was fired. No kidnapper was neutralized. Oga Bayo, did you call them again and just casually ask for their release, like you said on Arise TV a fortnight ago?”
His comment referenced a previous televised statement by Mr. Onanuga that fueled speculation about negotiation-based releases.
Another user, @humility2027, raised concerns about what he described as a dangerous pattern:
“We thank God the 100 students are back but let’s be honest: How were they released? Where are the bandits? Who was arrested? Silence on these questions is exactly why kidnappers keep operating freely. Nigeria cannot keep celebrating freed hostages while the criminals walk away untouched.”
Several commentators argued that until kidnappers are arrested and prosecuted, abductions will continue to be treated as lucrative ventures rather than crimes.
Historical Echoes: Chibok, Kankara, Tegina, Now Papiri
Some Nigerians drew comparisons to previous mass abductions, warning that the same systemic issues remain unresolved.
User @fatesblind wrote:
“Reminds me of the Chibok saga back in 2014. What incentives are shifting to make these rescues stick this time around?”
Others expressed resignation and distrust, arguing that Nigeria has been trapped in a recurring cycle of kidnappings and negotiated releases for over a decade.
@AdunbiAyobami captured this sentiment:
“It’s an endless cycle. I am waiting for another episode of kidnappings and freedoms.”
In the official statement, President Tinubu insisted that the government remains fully committed to bringing the remaining captives home, while directing security agencies to strengthen preventive measures:
“From now on, our security agencies, working with the governors, must prevent future kidnappings. Our children should no longer be sitting ducks for terrorists intent on disrupting their education.”
The President also reiterated federal collaboration with Niger State to ensure safer school environments.
However, the absence of details regarding how the 100 students regained freedom continues to overshadow the government’s reassurance.
While many families celebrate the return of their children, public discourse online indicates a growing demand for greater transparency, accountability, and a shift from reactionary “rescue missions” to proactive security measures.
For now, Nigerians continue to press for answers:
Who secured the release? How? And why do the perpetrators remain unidentified?
Until these questions are addressed, the debate surrounding the Papiri Catholic School kidnapping is likely to deepen, reflecting the broader national anxiety over insecurity and the state’s ability to confront it.
