Maha Christopher
The Niger State Government has urged residents to remain calm and disregard reports alleging bandit attacks on schools and communities across the state, describing the claims as false and misleading.
According to The Punch, the Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Obed Nana, said there was no evidence of any invasion of schools in Minna and surrounding areas or the abduction of pupils, students and teachers as reported in some quarters.
The reports had triggered panic in parts of the state, leading some schools to close early while parents hurriedly withdrew their children from classrooms over fears of possible attacks.
In a statement issued on Thursday, Nana said the government carried out consultations with the Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education, the Niger State Police Command and other security agencies, all of which confirmed that the alleged incidents did not occur.
He said security assessments and independent verifications established that the reports were unfounded and appeared designed to create fear and anxiety among residents.
“The reported incidents did not occur. Security assessments and independent verifications conducted by the appropriate authorities have established that the claims are entirely unfounded and designed to create fear, panic and unnecessary anxiety among residents,” he said.
The commissioner assured parents, guardians and school authorities that schools across the state remain safe and conducive for teaching and learning.
He added that the government was continuing to work closely with security agencies, community leaders and school administrators to strengthen security around educational institutions and other public facilities.
Nana urged parents to continue sending their children to school, noting that adequate measures had been put in place to protect lives and property.
Also reacting, the Niger State Police Command reiterated that there was no attack on any school in the state.
Police spokesperson Wasiu Abiodun said the Commissioner of Police, Adamu Elleman, had directed divisional police officers to maintain close collaboration with school authorities as part of ongoing school protection initiatives.
The command also encouraged residents to promptly report suspicious movements or security concerns through designated emergency lines, assuring the public of its commitment to maintaining peace and security across the state.
