Authorities in Nigeria’s Kwara State have ordered the closure of all schools in Ifelodun, Ekiti, Irepodun, Isin, and Oke Ero after receiving new reports of security risks in the region.
According to the state’s education commissioner, Lawal Olohungbebe, the shutdown is aimed at protecting students while security operatives hunt down armed groups said to be active around the area.
He explained that officials want to stop attackers from using schoolchildren as a shield while trying to escape ongoing military operations.This decision follows an attack in Eruku, Ekiti LGA, where gunmen invaded a church, causing panic and triggering a wider security operation across neighbouring communities.
Boarding schools in Irepodun were also instructed to close after intelligence reports warned they might be exposed.
The latest closures highlight rising insecurity in northern Nigeria. Just days ago, armed men kidnapped at least 25 students from Maga Comprehensive Girls’ Secondary School in Kebbi State. A teacher and a security guard were killed during the incident.
Community leaders say the attack took place shortly after soldiers left a checkpoint close to the school. Police have not yet released a statement.Kwara officials say all affected schools will remain closed until security agencies confirm that it is safe for academic activities to restart.
