Several private and public schools in the Nyanya area of the Federal Capital Territory were thrown into panic on Thursday following rumours of an alleged bandit invasion targeting schools for mass abductions.
The scare, which reportedly originated from Phase 1 Primary School, quickly spread across communities, prompting parents to rush to schools and withdraw their children over fears of a possible attack.
The panic also extended to neighbouring communities in Nasarawa State, including Mararaba, Koroduma and Ado in Karu Local Government Area.
Concerned parents reportedly abandoned work and hurried to various schools after receiving phone calls and social media messages alleging that armed bandits had entered the area to kidnap pupils for ransom.
The situation led to widespread anxiety across affected communities, with many schools activating emergency security measures.
Several schools reportedly locked their gates and restricted access to outsiders as a precautionary measure.
At Newphase Academy, the principal confirmed receiving information about the alleged threat but maintained that the school remained calm and secure.
According to the school administrator, security arrangements had already been strengthened to protect pupils and staff.
The school, however, adjusted its closing time and released pupils at 2 p.m. instead of the usual 3 p.m. following requests from anxious parents.
The panic also created increased demand for transportation services, with commercial motorcycle operators and tricycle riders reportedly charging higher fares as parents rushed to pick up their children.
Despite the widespread fear, visits to some schools showed normal activities continuing under heightened security surveillance.
In a swift response, the Federal Capital Territory Police Command dismissed reports of a bandit invasion as false.
Police authorities clarified that the panic was triggered by a false alarm allegedly raised by students and emphasized that there was no confirmed security breach involving bandits in the affected areas.
The command urged residents to remain calm and avoid spreading unverified information capable of causing unnecessary panic.
Authorities also encouraged members of the public to verify security-related information through official channels before sharing it on social media.
The incident comes amid heightened public anxiety over insecurity across parts of the country, particularly following recent kidnappings and attacks on schools and communities in several states.
