Students of Ayetoro-Iloro High School in Ekiti were forced to flee their school premises in panic after reports of suspected bandits near the community triggered fear among residents and school authorities.
Videos circulating online, including clips shared via the X handle @dammiedammie35, showed frightened students running along major roads while seeking help from motorists and residents.
The development created widespread tension within the community as worried parents reportedly rushed to schools to pick up their children.
As of the time of reporting, no attack, abduction, or confirmed security breach had been officially reported in the area.
However, the incident renewed concerns over insecurity in rural communities and the safety of schools across parts of the country.
Residents said panic began after rumours spread that armed men had allegedly been sighted in nearby communities, leading to fears of a possible attack.
To ensure the safety of students and teachers, school authorities reportedly decided to end academic activities early.
Some residents have since called on security agencies to strengthen surveillance and deploy more security personnel around vulnerable rural schools and communities.
“We cannot continue to live in fear every day. Government must deploy more security personnel to these rural communities before something terrible happens,” a resident said.
Another resident urged authorities to establish military and police checkpoints along roads connecting villages within the area to reassure residents and deter possible criminal attacks.
Parents were later seen attempting to reunite with their children while residents appealed for calm pending official clarification from security agencies.
As of Thursday evening and Friday morning, neither the Ekiti State Government nor the police had issued an official statement confirming the presence of bandits in the area.
“Please help us, we’re running from bandits. Save us!”
— Students in Ekiti State were seen fleeing in panic following reports of suspected armed bandits in the area pic.twitter.com/gVyL99WB49
— NaijaWide Media (@Naijawide01) May 22, 2026
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