The Lagos State Government has called for calm following a false alarm about a bandit attack at a school complex in Ojokoro, which caused widespread panic and led parents to rush to the premises.
Background of the Incident
The incident occurred at the Ijaiye Ojokoro Junior College, one of four schools within the Ojokoro school complex. The school was conducting its weekly co-recreational exercise, which included a practical demonstration on kidnapping and banditry. The supervising teacher used realistic props, including a truck and paramilitary gear, to simulate a bandit attack.
Miscommunication Leads to Panic
The Lagos State Education District 1, which oversees 99 public schools in Agege, Alimosho, and Ifako-Ijaiye zones, confirmed that there was no actual banditry or kidnapping. The panic resulted from a lack of communication and the tense security climate in the country. The teacher failed to inform school authorities or other staff about the drill, leading students and nearby residents to believe a real attack was underway.
Community Response
Residents of the nearby LSDPC Estate, comprising over 170 blocks of flats, were alerted via WhatsApp and other channels. Many parents rushed to the school, with some hyperventilating as they sought their children. The Residents Association later issued a statement clarifying that there was no security breach and that the teacher had been taken to the police station for questioning.
Police and Education Officials React
The police at Ebenezer Police Station confirmed the teacher was in custody but referred inquiries to the Police Public Relations Officer. Dr. Olufunke Idowu Oyetola, Tutor General and Permanent Secretary of Education District 1, explained that the teacher had good intentions but acted without permission. She noted that order was restored within an hour, and students from other schools in the complex were able to sit for their WAEC examinations as scheduled.
Lessons Learned
Dr. Oyetola emphasized the need for better communication and coordination, especially in a school complex with multiple institutions sharing limited space without fences. The incident highlights the challenges of using realistic role-play in a sensitive environment. The Lagos State Government urges the public to remain calm and trust that security agencies are handling the matter.
