Schools deserted in Ilorin after false bandits’ invasion alarm
Schools in Kwara State Affected by False Alarm
ILORIN, Kwara State — Many public schools in the state were largely deserted on Friday following a false alarm about bandit activity raised by a local resident.
Visits to several schools revealed that while staff members were present, classrooms were empty, as many students chose to stay home. One parent, speaking on condition of anonymity, cited security concerns stemming from the scare on Thursday as the reason for keeping her children at home.
Schools in communities including Oke-Oyi, Eleko-Afeyin, Zango-Kulende, Danialu, and Agbabiaka reported similar low attendance, despite assurances from state authorities. Kwara State Commissioner of Police, Ojo Adekimi, stated that the police have initiated a search for the source of the alarm, emphasizing that such false reports can lead to public disorder.
Reacting to the situation, Dr. Lawal Olohungbebe, the state Commissioner for Education, reassured parents in a statement to DAILY POST. “Following the confirmation from the Police that the reported bandit invasion was a rumor, I want to assure parents, guardians, and the general public that there is no cause for alarm,” he said.
Olohungbebe noted that he visited schools over the past two days and found the learning environment to be peaceful and conducive. He urged parents to allow their children to return to school, emphasizing that the safety and well-being of students remain the government’s top priority.
The Commissioner concluded by stating that the government will continue to collaborate with security agencies and other stakeholders to ensure schools are safe for educational activities.
