(DDM) – The Governor of Gombe State, Muhammadu Yahaya, has ordered the immediate closure of all schools in the state, effective on or before Friday, citing concerns over emerging security threats.
Diaspora Digital Media (DDM) gathered that the directive is intended as a precautionary measure to safeguard students, teachers, and school staff while security agencies assess potential risks.
The Governor’s announcement comes amid heightened apprehension across the state following reports of increased criminal activities and intelligence indicating possible threats to public institutions.
Officials in the Ministry of Education confirmed that both public and private schools would be affected, and urged school administrators to comply fully with the directive.
Gombe State has, in recent months, experienced a rise in security incidents, including kidnappings, armed robberies, and sporadic attacks in rural and semi-urban communities.
Security agencies have intensified patrols across key towns and vulnerable areas to ensure law and order is maintained and to deter any potential attacks.
Governor Yahaya emphasized that the safety of children and educators remains a top priority and that the government would continue to monitor the situation closely.
Parents have been advised to keep children at home and report any suspicious movements or activities around their neighborhoods to local security operatives.
The state government also pledged to work with local and federal security agencies to strengthen intelligence gathering and protective measures across the education sector.
Background reports show that Nigeria’s northern states have periodically faced threats to schools, particularly in areas prone to banditry and extremist activities.
Similar measures have been implemented in the past as temporary responses to protect students from targeted attacks, including abductions and violent raids.
Community leaders have welcomed the Governor’s decision, noting that proactive interventions are crucial to preventing tragedies and maintaining public confidence in government protection.
Authorities stressed that the closure is temporary and schools would resume normal operations once the security assessment confirms a safe environment for learning.
Parents and residents are urged to remain vigilant and cooperate with security agencies to help ensure the safety of all children across the state.