Public schools in Ilorin, Kwara State, saw a mass exodus of students on Friday, following a false alarm about a bandit attack raised by a local woman. The rumor caused widespread panic, leading many parents to keep their children at home as a precautionary measure.
Despite school staff being present, classrooms across the state capital—including areas like Oke-Oyi, Eleko-Afeyin, Zango-Kulende, Danialu, and Agbabiaka—stood empty. Even after the Kwara State Commissioner of Police, Ojo Adekimi, publicly dismissed the invasion claim and announced a manhunt for the woman who started the rumor, many families remained fearful.
One parent, who wished to remain unnamed, explained that the Thursday alarm had traumatized her, prompting her to refuse her children’s school attendance for safety reasons. The police commissioner warned that such false reports could lead to public disorder and vowed to hold the perpetrator accountable.
In response, Kwara State’s Commissioner for Education, Dr. Lawal Olohungbebe, issued a statement on Friday reassuring parents of school safety. He noted that he had personally visited several schools and confirmed a peaceful environment. ‘I encourage all parents to send their children back to school without fear. Their safety is our top priority,’ he said. He added that the government is collaborating with security agencies and stakeholders to maintain a secure learning atmosphere.