Schools deserted in Ilorin after false bandits’ invasion alarm

Many public schools were deserted on Friday, following the false bandits’ alarm raised by a woman in Ilorin, Kwara State.

A visit to some of the schools revealed that while staff of the schools were on ground, classrooms were empty as children refused to turn up for academic activities.

A parent who requested anonymity said she did not allow her children to go to school for security reasons because the Thursday alarm traumatised her.

Schools around Oke-Oyi, Eleko-Afeyin, Zango-Kulende, Danialu, Agbabiaka communities in the state capital, recorded the same zero attendance, despite the rebuttal by the state Commissioner of Police, Ojo Adekimi.

He said the police command had launched a search for the mastermind of the false alarm, warning that such acts could cause public disorder.

In his reaction on Friday, the state Commissioner for Education, Dr Lawal Olohungbebe, told DAILY POST that “following the statement issued by the Police confirming that the reported bandits’ invasion was merely a rumour and not a real security threat, I wish to reassure parents, guardians, and the general public that there is no cause for alarm.

“I have personally gone around some schools yesterday and today, and can confirm that the learning environment remains peaceful and conducive. 

“I therefore enjoin all parents to allow their children and wards to resume school without fear, as the safety and well-being of our learners remain our utmost priority,” he added.

Olohungbebe said the government will continue to work closely with security agencies and relevant stakeholders to ensure that all our schools remain safe for teaching and learning.