- The commissioner described the allegations as misleading information intended to spread fear
- He noted that security assessments and independent checks conducted across the affected areas found no evidence of attacks on schools
The Niger State Government has dismissed reports of bandit attacks on schools in Minna and other parts of the state, assuring residents that there is no security threat to educational institutions.
Eko Hot Blog gathered that the reassurance was contained in a statement issued on Thursday by the Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Obed Nana, following widespread panic triggered by social media claims of bandit invasions and abductions involving students and teachers.
EDITOR’S PICK
- Akpabio Dismisses Reports of Promising APC Tickets to Defeated Senators
- Court Discharges Baba Adinni of Lagos, Upholds No-Case Submission
- “Verify Information Before Spreading It” — Alara Warns on Security
The rumours sparked anxiety in some communities, leading several schools to temporarily suspend activities and evacuate pupils and staff as a precautionary measure.
However, Nana said investigations carried out in collaboration with relevant authorities confirmed that the reported incidents never occurred.
According to him, the state government consulted the Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education, the Niger State Police Command, and other security agencies, all of which verified that the claims were false.
He noted that security assessments and independent checks conducted across the affected areas found no evidence of attacks on schools in Bosso, Kpakungu, Sabon-Wuse, Lambata, or any other community mentioned in the reports.
The commissioner described the allegations as misleading information intended to spread fear and create unnecessary tension among residents.
He assured parents, students, teachers, and school administrators that the government remains committed to safeguarding lives and property, particularly within learning environments.
Nana added that the state government is working closely with security agencies, community leaders, and school authorities to strengthen security measures around schools across the state.
He urged parents and guardians not to withdraw their children from school based on unverified information, stressing that adequate arrangements have been put in place to ensure the safety of students and staff.
The government also advised residents to rely on information from official channels and avoid sharing unconfirmed security reports capable of causing panic.
Meanwhile, the Commissioner of Police in the state, Adamu Elleman, has directed divisional police officers to intensify collaboration with school managements as part of efforts to enhance security around educational institutions.
In a separate statement, the Police Public Relations Officer, Wasiu Abiodun, said the command had also increased patrols around schools and urged residents to promptly report suspicious activities to security agencies.
The police said the measures are aimed at reassuring the public and preventing fear generated by false reports.
FURTHER READING
