Schools across Nyanya and adjoining communities in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) as well as parts of Nasarawa State were thrown into panic on Thursday following reports that suspected bandits had invaded the area to abduct pupils for ransom.
The alarm, which was said to have originated from Phase 1 Primary School, Gbagalape, Abuja, quickly spread across the area, prompting anxious parents to rush to schools and withdraw their children over fears of a possible attack.
The development also affected schools in Mararaba, Koroduma and Ado communities in Karu Local Government Area of Nasarawa State, where concerned parents hurriedly left their workplaces after receiving phone calls and messages warning of alleged bandit invasions of schools.
Witnesses said many parents forcefully withdrew their children from classrooms as panic gripped the communities.
However, visits to some of the affected schools revealed that the situation remained calm despite heightened security measures. School authorities confirmed receiving alerts about the alleged threat but said there had been no actual attack.
As a precaution, several schools immediately tightened security around their premises. School gates, which are usually left open until closing hours, were locked to restrict access and ensure the safety of pupils and staff.
At Newphase Academy, the principal, who requested anonymity, confirmed that the school received information about the alleged bandit invasion.
She said although there was no security breach, the management decided to remain vigilant and activate existing safety measures.
According to her, the school also adjusted its closing time, allowing pupils to leave by 2 p.m. instead of the usual 3 p.m. following requests from concerned parents.
The panic created unexpected business opportunities for commercial transport operators, with motorcycle riders and tricycle operators reportedly charging higher fares as they ferried parents and pupils to various destinations.
Meanwhile, the FCT Police Command has dismissed the reports of bandits invading schools, describing the incident as a false alarm.
The command said preliminary findings indicated that the panic was triggered by misinformation allegedly spread by students, adding that there was no evidence of any kidnapping attempt or bandit attack in the area.
Police authorities urged residents to remain calm and avoid spreading unverified information capable of causing public panic, while assuring parents and school administrators that adequate security measures remain in place to protect schools and communities across the territory.