Kwara On Red Notice: Govt Moves Fast To Shield Pupils From Kidnap Threats

The Kwara State Government has ordered special security measures across five local government areas following rising concerns that kidnappers fleeing intensified operations may attempt to use schoolchildren as human shields.

The precautionary move affects schools in Ifelodun, Ekiti, Irepodun, Isin and Oke Ero LGAs, with boarding schools in Irepodun receiving additional attention due to their vulnerability.

The heightened alert follows the recent attack on the Christ Apostolic Church (CAC) in Eruku, Ekiti LGA, where armed men invaded a worship service, killing and abducting residents before escaping into nearby bush paths. The incident, which has drawn nationwide concern, has further elevated the state government’s sense of urgency in securing schools across affected communities.

In a statement issued by Dr. Lawal Olohungbebe, Commissioner for Education and Human Capital Development, the government said the new measures are proactive and designed to guarantee safer learning environments while ongoing security operations continue across the region. He added that the restrictions may remain in place until security agencies give clearance for full resumption of normal activities in the affected areas.

The state government said the steps became necessary as criminal elements dispersed by ongoing security offensives may attempt to infiltrate nearby communities, putting children and school facilities at risk.

With Eruku still reeling from the CAC attack and security agents continuing their search for the abducted victims, the new measures signal a coordinated effort between the state and federal authorities to prevent further incidents and protect vulnerable populations, especially schoolchildren.