Follow Us on Google
-
Says rumour fake, misleading
-
Urges residents not to panic
From John Adams, Minna
The Niger State government has reacted to the kidnap rumour, which led to the shutdown of schools in Minna, the state capital, and other parts of the state on Wednesday, saying the rumour was the handiwork of mischief-makers seeking to discredit the government over the current security situation in the state.
The government said there is no cause for alarm and therefore urged residents to go about their normal activities and disregard rumours of bandit invasions.
The Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Hon. Obed Nana, who reacted to the kidnap scare that threw the state into pandemonium on Wednesday, said in a statement on Thursday that residents, especially school authorities, should be assured that Niger State remains safe, secure and conducive for school and business activities.
Nana said the clarification had become necessary following the panic the “fake news” created among residents of the state on Wednesday.
He described as false and misleading rumours alleging that bandits attacked schools in Bosso, Kpakungu, Sabon-Wuse, Lambata and other parts of the state.
“The Niger State Ministry of Information and Orientation wishes to reassure parents, guardians, students, and the general public that schools across Niger State remain safe, secure, and conducive for teaching and learning.
Other News
“This clarification becomes necessary following the circulation of false and misleading reports on some social media platforms alleging banditry attacks on schools in Bosso, Kpakungu, Sabon-Wuse, Lambata, and other parts of the state.
“The Ministry, in consultation with the Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education, the Niger State Police Command, and other relevant security agencies, can confirm that 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.
“The Niger State Government remains fully committed to the safety and welfare of students, teachers, and all members of school communities. In line with this commitment, the government continues to work closely with security agencies, school administrators, community leaders, and other stakeholders to strengthen security architecture around educational institutions across the state.
“Parents and guardians are therefore encouraged to remain calm and continue sending their children and wards to school, as adequate measures have been put in place to safeguard lives and property within and around school environments,” Nana stated.
Meanwhile, school activities were in full swing in Minna, the state capital, on Thursday as all the schools that shut down abruptly on Wednesday reopened.
It was observed that police patrol vehicles were stationed at strategic locations across the town, while the Commissioner of Police directed all police divisions to work closely with school authorities within their jurisdictions to ensure adequate security in schools.
