About 15 persons kidnapped alongside 156 students of Salihu Tanko Islamic school in Tegina Rafi Local government Area of Niger state, have escaped from their abductors over the weekend. It was gathered that the lucky victims escaped while some of the bandits stationed to watch over them were asleep. An escapee who got to Tegina first informed the people, prompting Niger state government to begin working toward assisting other victims. The escapee is said to be hospitalised for treatment. According to him, “We discovered that some of the bandits who were heavily armed slept off after being drunk and we cashed on that to escape.” Further information revealed that three other victims among the escapees arrived Tegina in the early hours of Sunday, while one of them who was rescued was brought to Minna where he is receiving treatment.
Also, yesterday, a councillor, who was one of the abductees, also arrived in the town with two others into the waiting hands of the jubilant villagers.
A top government official confirmed the development, adding that security operatives have been drafted to the Tegina-Birnin-Gwari road to await the arrival of the remaining 10 escapees.
“We are happy over the good news and the government has taken steps to welcome others back to Tegina and accorded proper medical attention before reuniting with their family members,” he declared.
Meanwhile, the security operatives and the vice-chairman of Kagara local government were said to have been sent to the Tegina-Birnin Gwari road to await the arrival of the remaining 10 escapees.
The source said they would be brought to Minna for proper attention.
The news of the escapees raises hope that the 156 children also picked by the bandits will soon regain their freedom.
