Kwara State shuts schools as insecurity rises in northern Nigeria

Authorities in Kwara State, Nigeria, have ordered the immediate closure of all schools across five local government areas because of growing security threats. The affected areas are Ifelodun, Ekiti, Irepodun, Isin and Oke Ero. The decision was announced by the state’s Commissioner for Education, Lawal Olohungbebe, who said the move was necessary to protect students while security forces deal with armed groups operating nearby.

According to the commissioner, security agencies are currently carrying out operations in forests and communities within the region. He explained that the government does not want criminals to hide among schoolchildren or use schools as escape routes during the military operation. He added that safety must come first, even if it means disrupting academic activities temporarily.

The school closures follow a recent attack in Eruku, a community in Ekiti Local Government Area, where gunmen invaded a church. The incident created fear among residents and triggered a broader security sweep across neighbouring districts. After receiving new intelligence reports, the government also instructed all boarding schools in Irepodun to shut down immediately because they could be at risk.

This development adds to wider concerns about increasing violence in northern Nigeria. Earlier in the week, armed men attacked Maga Comprehensive Girls’ Secondary School in Kebbi State, kidnapping at least 25 students. During the attack, a teacher and a school security guard were killed. Local leaders reported that the kidnapping occurred shortly after soldiers left a checkpoint near the school, raising questions about security arrangements in the area. Police have not yet issued an official statement on the incident.

Communities across the region say they are worried about the safety of their children and the growing boldness of armed groups. Parents are urging the government to take stronger action to prevent further attacks on schools, places of worship and rural communities.

Kwara State authorities say the shutdown will remain in place until security agencies confirm that it is safe for students and teachers to return. The government is working with the police, the military and local vigilante groups to restore peace. Officials have assured residents that they will continue monitoring the situation closely and will reopen schools only when they are certain that students will not be exposed to danger.

The government has appealed to parents and communities to remain calm and cooperate with security agencies during this period.