Lagos police stepped up school security, saying no apparent threat to students had been detected

The Lagos State Police Command has acted to allay growing anxiety among parents and school administrators following reports of threatening messages alleging plans by bandits to target schools and kidnap students in the state.

The security alert, which reportedly came after the notice was allegedly posted at a school, sparked concern among residents and raised concerns about the safety of students. However, police insisted that investigations carried out so far had not uncovered any credible intelligence indicating an attack was imminent.

In a statement issued on Monday, the Command’s spokesperson, SP Abimbola Adebisi, said that the security agencies had carefully reviewed the report and immediately implemented preventive measures to protect the educational institutions and local communities.

“The Lagos State Police Command has seen reports of threat notices allegedly pasted at a school, stating that bandits intend to attack and kidnap school children.

“The command wishes to assure parents, guardians, school authorities and all citizens that there is currently no verified intelligence indicating any threat of such an attack in Lagos State,” the statement said.

Although there is no confirmed intelligence evidence, police say they are taking the matter seriously and have increased security monitoring to ensure public trust and prevent security breaches.

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As part of the response, Police Commissioner Tijani Fatai ordered a comprehensive security review and directed the deployment of additional personnel to schools, public facilities and other sensitive locations across the state.

According to the Command, officers have been deployed in collaboration with other security agencies to strengthen protection around schools and maintain a security presence in vulnerable areas.

The police further emphasized that Lagos remains safe and warned criminal elements against exploiting public fears or threatening citizens.

“The Command will not tolerate any attempts by criminals, bandits, kidnappers or other criminal elements to threaten the peace and safety of citizens.

“Any individual or group proven to be involved in actions that may cause fear, panic or insecurity will be dealt with strictly in accordance with the law,” the statement said.

The command also appealed to residents to remain vigilant and cooperate with security agencies by immediately reporting suspicious activities or persons in their communities.

According to police, community participation remains essential for effective crime prevention and community safety.

“Security is a collective responsibility, and effective policing thrives when there is an active partnership between the Police and members of the community,” the statement added.

Citizens are advised to contact the nearest police station or utilize the Command’s emergency line whenever they notice unusual movements, suspicious objects or any activity that could threaten public safety.

Reiterating its commitment to protect lives and property, the Command assured Lagosians that extensive measures were still being taken to maintain peace and maintain security across the state.

“The public is once again reassured that all parties are involved to ensure the safety, security and well-being of every resident of Lagos State,” the statement said.

This assurance comes amidst growing national concern over attacks on schools in several parts of the country, and security authorities stressed that proactive steps are being taken to ensure that educational institutions in Lagos remain safe and conducive to learning.