Back to Class in Kwara: Schools Reopen After Security Clampdown on Bandits

 The Kwara State Government has approved the reopening of all schools across the state from Monday, ending weeks of disruption triggered by rising security concerns in parts of the state.

The decision was announced on Sunday, February 1, by the Commissioner for Education and Human Capital Development, Dr Lawal Olohungbebe, who said school authorities had already been formally notified of the development.

According to the commissioner, the move followed sustained military and security operations that significantly improved the security situation, particularly in forested areas previously used as hideouts by bandits and other criminal elements.

“The government deems the situation now to be a lot better than it was before. Even so, we continue to maintain vigilance,” Olohungbebe said in a statement signed by the ministry’s Press Secretary, Peter Amogbonjaye.

He explained that security operations are still ongoing to consolidate recent gains, while the government continues to strengthen community-based measures alongside kinetic interventions.

The reopening comes amid intensified offensives by security forces, including recent coordinated clearance operations by the Nigerian Army and other agencies, which reportedly led to the dislodgement of bandits from several enclaves and the destruction of their camps.

Security sources also confirmed the arrest of suspected bandits and the recovery of arms and ammunition during intelligence-led operations, although concerns were raised about alleged informants within some communities undermining security efforts.

Schools across Kwara had been shut after a surge in kidnappings and attacks prompted parents to withdraw their children over safety fears.

Reassuring residents, Olohungbebe said the safety of students, teachers and school workers remains a top priority, urging school administrators to maintain close communication with security agencies and promptly report any suspicious activities around school premises.

The government expressed confidence that the improved security environment will allow academic activities to resume smoothly across the state.

SOURCE : NaijaRush Assignment Desk