Panic swept through parts of Oyo State on Tuesday after frightened parents stormed a primary school to withdraw their children following rumors of a suspected bandit attack in nearby communities.
The incident reportedly occurred at Ijeru Baptist Basic School I and III after reports circulated that armed bandits had invaded areas around the Ajawa axis.
The development caused fear among residents, prompting parents and guardians to rush to the school premises in large numbers.
Inside Oyo:
Bandits Kill Abducted Oyo Teacher, Release Disturbing Video
Oyo School Under Siege As Gunmen Kidnap Principal, Students
Inter Miami CF Training Session and Press Conference
Eyewitnesses said several parents forcefully opened the school gates and hurriedly evacuated their children amid confusion and tension.
Videos from the scene showed emotional moments as worried parents scrambled to take pupils home over safety concerns.
A community source disclosed that the panic was fueled by unverified information suggesting that bandits were operating within the area.
However, school authorities reportedly tried to calm the situation, insisting there was no confirmed bandit invasion.
Teachers were also said to have contacted security operatives, who later clarified that the unrest was linked to a clash involving Fulani herders and farmers rather than an attack by bandits.
The incident comes amid growing insecurity fears in Oyo State following recent attacks and abductions in some communities within the state. Residents say fear has continued to spread, especially after reports of kidnappings involving teachers and pupils in the Ogbomoso axis.
Academic activities at the affected school were disrupted as many pupils were withdrawn from classes by anxious parents determined to protect their children from any possible danger.
About the Author
