Confusion in schools as Kano State issues conflicting orders over security threat

Amid apprehension, public and private schools yesterday abruptly shut down over an alleged security threat in Kano State.

The ugly trend, which generated tension, forced parents to besiege the learning institutions to pick up their wards

A proprietor of a popular private school within the Kano metropolis told The Guardian that the state Ministry of Education had directed learning institutions to shut down till further notice for fear of attacks.

Contacted, the Director of Private Schools in the state ministry, Yakubu Mailafia, confirmed the directive, but he, however, referred reporters to the Permanent Secretary, Danlami Bala, for further briefing.

But the Commissioner for Information, Mallam Muhammad Garba, called on the public to dispel the supposed directive which he termed a rumour.

Bala, however, said: “ There was a confusion in the whole statement but the earlier directive should be disregarded. Parents can now leave their children in school”.

His words: “ The Kano State government has dispelled the rumour making the rounds especially on social media platforms over an alleged security threat in form of invasion and kidnapping of students in boarding schools in the state. The rumour, which has been peddled by unpatriotic and heartless people, is baseless, unfounded and therefore should be disregarded. We advise the public, especially parents, guardians and caregivers, to remain calm and allow their wards to remain in the schools until examinations are concluded. We assure parents of security of lives and property.”

However, another proprietor, who also pleaded for anonymity, said they received similar notice through the ministry which ordered the closure of schools in Kano for insecurity.

“There was an emergency meeting this morning (yesterday) by the private school owners where we were directed to close down our establishments for security reason. The directive came from the Kano State Ministry of Education. So, we have no choice than to direct parents to come and pick their children,” he stated.