BAUCHI: The Bauchi State Government has ordered the immediate closure of all schools across the state following rising security concerns.
The directive affects public and private primary, secondary, and tertiary institutions, including federal schools.
Jalaludeen Usman, spokesperson for the Bauchi Ministry of Education, said the decision followed extensive consultations and an evaluation of potential threats to students, teachers, and school communities.
He acknowledged that the move may inconvenience parents but insisted that safeguarding children remains the government’s overriding priority.
Residents were urged to remain alert and report suspicious activity to authorities.In Lagos, the Police Command has intensified security across schools, worship centres, markets, recreational spots and event venues in response to recent attacks in parts of the country, including the Eruku church assault in Kwara and the abductions in Kebbi and Niger states.
Commissioner of Police Olorundare Jimoh said a special squad has been created specifically for school protection. He assured residents that the state is making “steady progress with no fear of apprehension.
Our intelligence teams are moving in and out of major areas to prevent any criminal infiltration, he said during a press briefing at the Command Headquarters in Ikeja.
Jimoh said security has also been reinforced around critical infrastructure and border communities.
He highlighted the deployment of 26 new gunboats to secure waterways, as well as the establishment of a Submarine Tactical Squad to enhance internal maritime security.
Land-based patrols have also been strengthened through the EkoStrike Force, a rapid-response unit created by the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, to support the Rapid Response Squad (RRS).
The Lagos CP noted that Somolu Local Government has constructed a permanent site for the EkoStrike Force.
The unit has been expanded from 23 to 35 tactical teams, with plans to increase the number to 57 so that every LGA and LCDA will have its own dedicated response team.
Jimoh reported multiple security breakthroughs in November. According to him, 56 suspects were arrested for offences including armed robbery, kidnapping, conspiracy, assault, and threats to life.
Recovered items included:
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Nine stolen exotic vehicles taken by car wash workers and drivers
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One stolen motorcycle
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Six firearms, including locally made pistols and cut-to-size guns
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Live cartridges and other dangerous weapons such as a machete, battle axe and assault dagger
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Nigerian military camouflage
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Charms
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Fake foreign currency worth $4,000
Jimoh said the successes reflect the command’s sustained efforts to dismantle criminal gangs and intercept stolen property.
He directed Area Commanders, DPOs and Tactical Unit heads to ensure increased security at worship centres, especially as festive activities approach.
The security situation in Lagos is not alarming. We are firmly on top of the situation,” he said, while urging residents to remain vigilant and continue collaborating with the police.
In Katsina, Police Commissioner Bello Shehu announced that the command has activated school protection structures in compliance with IGP Egbetokun’s directive.
Shehu assigned the Coordinator of the School Protection Squad to ensure all schools receive adequate coverage.
More resources have been deployed following a review of security strategies with tactical commanders.
He urged the public to report suspicious movements using the state’s published emergency lines, adding that the command remains committed to securing communities and learning environments.
