Following attacks in some schools across the country which have led to the kidnapping of students in their Hundreds, Bauchi State Government has directed the immediate closure of all schools in the State.
The government said the measure which affects primary, secondary and tertiary institutions including federal government – owned and private schools, is to forestall any unforseen circumstances.
This was contained in a statement signed and made available to journalists in the State on Sunday night by the Information and Public Relations Officer, Bauchi State Ministry of Education, Jalaludeen Usman, titled: “Temporary Closure of All Schools in Bauchi State Due to Security Concerns.”
The government said that the decision was a tough one to make but was however, necessary in view of the prevailing and worsening security challenges across the country, and is aimed at protecting students, teachers, and school communities across the state.
“The Bauchi State Government wishes to notify the general public that all primary, secondary, and tertiary institutions—including Federal Government-owned schools and private schools—are hereby closed with immediate effect.
“This decision, though difficult, was taken by the Government of Bauchi State after extensive consultations and in response to overwhelming security concerns affecting the safety of students, teachers, and school communities across the state.
“The government is fully aware of the inconvenience this may cause. However, the protection of our children remains our highest moral responsibility. Every student in Bauchi State deserves to learn in an environment that is safe, stable, and free of fear,” the statement said.
The government called on parents, guardians, school proprietors and all concerned stakeholders “not to panic, but to remain calm and cooperative,” assuring that “the government is working closely with security agencies to address the concerns swiftly and comprehensively, ensuring that normal academic activities resume as soon as it is safe to do so.”
The statement urged citizens to remain vigilant and “If you see something, say something. Timely information from the public is crucial in safeguarding our communities. The Bauchi State Government will continue to provide updates as the situation evolves.”
Armstrong Bakam
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