The Kwara State Government has ordered the immediate and indefinite closure of all public and private schools across four local government areas (LGAs) in Kwara South amid rising insecurity. The decision comes in response to a surge in violent bandit attacks that have claimed lives and heightened fears across the region.
Affected Areas and Official Directive
The closure affects schools in Isin, Irepodun, Ifelodun, and Ekiti LGAs, according to a statement issued through the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT), Kwara State chapter. Comrade Yusuf Agboola, NUT Chairman, confirmed the mandatory shutdown on Wednesday, noting that the union was acting on instructions from the Ministry of Education and Human Capital Development.
The circular cited “prevailing security challenges” and “fresh security threats” in Kwara South as the basis for the closure, aimed at safeguarding the lives of students, teachers, and school staff.
Recent Security Incidents Triggering Action
The government’s move follows a string of violent events, most notably the attack on a Christ Apostolic Church in Eruku town, Ekiti LGA. Armed bandits reportedly stormed the church during a service, killing multiple worshippers and abducting over 30 people, including the pastor.
This attack intensified fears of banditry and kidnappings in Kwara South, prompting urgent intervention from the state government.
Governor Orders Security Reinforcements
Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq personally visited the affected communities to assess the situation. He announced plans for a security upgrade, including the establishment of a Forward Operating Base of the Nigerian Army and a Mobile Police Squadron in Eruku to stabilize the area.
The Governor emphasized collaboration with both military and police commands to contain ongoing attacks and restore public confidence in the safety of the region.
Duration and Future Updates
The Commissioner for Education and Human Capital Development, Dr. Lawal Olohungbebe, stated that schools will remain closed until security agencies provide clearance for normal activities to resume. The safety of students remains the primary determinant for reopening.
School heads and teachers have been instructed to comply fully with the directive. Residents are urged to remain calm and cooperate with authorities as security operations intensify.
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