Ogun Moves to Secure Schools After Terror Threat Intelligence

ABEOKUTA — The Ogun State Government has announced a series of security measures to protect schools across the state following intelligence suggesting a potential threat to educational institutions. The Nation reported the development on Saturday. Governor Dapo Abiodun said the government will not wait for an attack before acting.

Security agencies have been directed to increase patrols around schools, particularly boarding facilities and rural institutions. The government will also review and upgrade perimeter fencing, install CCTV systems, and establish faster emergency response protocols between school administrations and the nearest security posts.

Commissioner for Education Olayinka Oladugba said parents should not panic but should encourage their children to report any suspicious activities around their schools. He said the government is taking the threat seriously and has placed all public schools on heightened alert.

National Context

Ogun’s move comes in the wake of the May 16 JAS terrorist attack on schools in Oriire, Oyo State, which killed a teacher and abducted pupils and staff. The Defence Headquarters confirmed the attack was carried out by Boko Haram-affiliated terrorists dislodged from the northeast.

Security experts said the spread of jihadist activity into the southwest is a serious strategic threat. They said state governments across the south must treat school security with the same urgency that northern states have applied in communities near the northeast conflict zone.

Amotekun Corps has been given expanded authority in Ogun to respond to threats near educational facilities. The state government said it is also working with the military and DSS to ensure intelligence sharing is faster and more coordinated at the local level.