The Lagos State Police Command has declared two private schools in Ikeja’s Government Reserved Area (GRA) safe after thorough security checks found no explosives following a bomb threat that forced temporary closures and panic among students and staff earlier this week.
Police have launched an intensified investigation to identify and arrest those responsible for the threatening messages.
On Tuesday, January 20, 2026, at about 4:00 p.m., officials from both schools reported receiving anonymous WhatsApp messages alleging that explosive devices had been planted within the school compounds.
The reports were made separately by the schools’ Human Resources Manager and Chief Security Officer at the Ikeja Divisional Police Headquarters, prompting swift police action.
Commissioner of Police Olohundare Jimoh personally led a team of highly trained operatives, including the Explosive Ordnance Disposal, Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear (EOD-CBRN) Unit, the Rapid Response Squad (RRS) and other tactical units, to conduct a meticulous security sweep of both schools.
The exercise covered classrooms, administrative offices, halls, playgrounds and surrounding areas to rule out the presence of Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) or other hazardous materials.
After the extensive operation, the police confirmed that no explosive or dangerous device was found on the premises. The schools were subsequently declared safe for both academic and administrative activities, and normal operations are expected to resume.
In addition to police clearance, Brigadier General Ayokunle Owolabi, Commander of the 9 Brigade of the Nigerian Army, visited the schools to reinforce public confidence in the security measures put in place.
Authorities said combined efforts from security agencies aim to reassure parents, students and school staff of their safety while maintaining vigilance.
The Commissioner of Police directed that the investigation be intensified to trace, identify and apprehend the sender(s) of the threat messages, with a view to prosecuting them in accordance with the law.
Police officers have been strategically deployed to the affected schools to ensure round-the-clock security and prevent any recurrence of such scares.
The rapid response highlights the Lagos State Police Command’s commitment to protecting lives and property and maintaining public safety amid rising concerns over threats to educational institutions.
Security agencies also urged the public to remain calm, vigilant and report any suspicious activity to the nearest police station or through official emergency contacts.
Parents, educators and community leaders welcomed the clearance, describing it as a reassurance after the anxiety triggered by the alerts.
The episode has also underscored the importance of timely reporting and cooperation between school authorities and security agencies to prevent panic and ensure swift resolution of potential threats.
