Ilorin schools disrupted after false bandit alarm

A false report of a bandit invasion in Ilorin, the capital of Kwara State, sparked panic among parents on Thursday, prompting many to rush to schools and withdraw their children. The alarm, spread by a woman claiming bandits had entered the area, led to chaotic scenes at several schools, including ECWA Secondary, United Secondary, and the Cherubim and Seraphim College, and caused a temporary halt to commercial activity in parts of the city.

Police investigations found no evidence of any security breach. Kwara State Police Commissioner Ojo Adekimi labelled the incident a "misleading alarm," launched a manhunt for the individual who spread the rumor, and warned that disseminating false information that incites public disorder would not be tolerated. The following day, school attendance remained low as parents kept their children home despite assurances of safety.

Education Commissioner Dr. Lawal Olohungbebe visited schools, confirmed that the learning environment was safe, and urged parents to allow their children to resume classes. Authorities emphasised that the city remains secure and called for responsible use of social media to prevent similar panic.