Heightened fears of banditry forced schools in parts of Kogi, Edo, and Niger States to shut early on Wednesday. The immediate closures followed an attack on UBE Secondary/Primary School in Iluke, Kogi State, and intelligence reports warning of possible incursions into schools in Edo and Niger.
The wave of school closures comes just weeks after mass abductions of pupils in Oyo State, a situation that drew national and international concern over the safety of students in Nigeria.
Tragedy at Iluke School
In Kogi State, at least three people died during the Iluke attack in Kabba-Bunu Local Government Area. Among the deceased were the Vice Principal, Ganiyu Anifowose, 70-year-old Sunday Alhassan, and six-year-old Sunday Ayele.
Police said the attack involved around 40 armed bandits on motorcycles. During a gun exchange, one attacker was neutralised, and a security operative was injured and is currently receiving treatment. A statement from Kogi State Police Command confirmed that investigations are ongoing and stressed support for the victims’ families.
Proactive Measures in Edo and Niger
In Edo State, three schools were closed following intelligence from the Department of State Security (DSS), which uncovered a plan to abduct children in Akoko Edo LGA. The warning stemmed from confessions by two intercepted suspects, who admitted targeting schoolchildren to extract higher ransoms.
The DSS also confirmed the arrest of Emmanuel Momidu (25), who was reportedly surveilling Makeke Secondary School. Edo State authorities subsequently ordered the temporary closure of Ososo Grammar School, Ososo Comprehensive High School, and Makeke Secondary School, though students sitting ongoing WASSCE exams were allowed under strict security.
In Niger State, unverified reports of imminent attacks prompted parents to withdraw children from schools in Minna. Despite the panic, police investigations found no actual bandit activity. Niger State Police spokesperson Wasiu Abiodun emphasized that the rumors were false and part of a mischief campaign.
Community and Civil Society Reactions
Amnesty International condemned the Kogi attack, urging authorities to prosecute perpetrators and strengthen school security. Similarly, the National Association of Okun Students (NAOS) called for a coordinated security summit involving traditional rulers, political leaders, and security agencies to combat escalating criminal threats.
Olu Opeyemi, NAOS National President, warned that repeated attacks on schools and communities demand immediate, practical solutions, emphasizing intelligence gathering, community vigilance, and rapid response mechanisms.
Oyo State Police Responds
In Oyo State, police debunked rumors of Lukarawa terrorist infiltration into forests around Ogbomoso and the Old Oyo National Park. Spokesperson Ayanlade Olayinka stated that intelligence and covert operatives are actively deployed, alongside local hunters, vigilantes, and community networks, to ensure the safety of residents. Increased visibility patrols and stop-and-search operations have been implemented to maintain security and reassure border communities.
The command urged residents to remain vigilant, follow official information sources, and support law enforcement efforts to prevent further panic and ensure the protection of schoolchildren.
