Following the state government's decision to close all basic schools as a precaution against potential security concerns, the Plateau State Police Command took action to allay parents' and guardians' fears. In a statement released on Saturday, police spokesperson Alfred Alabo said the command was aware of the concerns expressed following the announcement by the Plateau State Universal Basic Education Board (PSUBEB) that Government Junior Model Secondary Schools, primary schools, and day schools throughout the state would be temporarily closed.
The directive is in force from November 22 to November 24.
According to Mr. Alabo, school communities are being protected by the police. "Our top priority is the security of our students, staff, and communities," he stated.
Schools are temporarily closed as a preventative step to protect our educational institutions. Intelligence teams were working "around the clock to gather intelligence to nip potential security risks in the bud," he continued.
According to the command, the Commissioner of Police has ordered tactical units, divisional police officers, and area commanders to step up patrols near residential areas, schools, and other key locations. The statement also mentioned that the police intelligence section had started a 24-hour monitoring strategy.
Residents were asked to use the emergency numbers listed in the announcement to report any suspicious behavior to the police.
In order to minimize interruptions and guarantee that schools may resume regular operations once the danger level reduces, the command said it was collaborating with other security authorities and community groups.
PSUBEB's declaration on Friday came after several assaults on schools around the nation. Recently, gunmen in Kebbi State broke into the Government Girls Comprehensive Secondary School in Maga, kidnapping 25 girls and murdering the vice principal who attempted to stop them.
In an early morning assault in Niger State, armed men also stormed St. Mary's Catholic Primary/Secondary Schools in Papiri, Agwara Local Government Area, seizing both teachers and pupils.
The temporary school closures in Plateau, according to authorities, are a part of larger initiatives to bolster early-warning systems surrounding vulnerable populations and stop repeat events.