Two elite schools in Lagos have shut down academic activities following threats of explosion.
The schools Grange and Avi-Cenna said they received the threat in letters from unknown persons.
The schools made the announcement in separate letters to parents and guardians, citing safety concerns.
Avi-Cenna in a letter signed by Paul Olubajo said that management had received an explosion threat via text message adding that despite the police’s safety results, the school will remain closed for the day.
The school’s management also apologised for the decision, adding that “we continue to strive to ensure the safety of the school community”.
“We wish to inform you that we received a text message about a fire explosion threat,” the letter reads.
“The police authorities were immediately informed, and they deployed their special unit with their devices to the school. After a thorough assessment of the entire premises, they confirmed that the premises are safe. However, school will remain closed for today.
“We are sharing this update to keep you informed and will share further updates as they become available. Kindly bear with us as we continue to strive to ensure the safety of our students, staff, and parents.”
Similarly, Grange School in a letter signed by Richard McMahon, the school head, said although there was no danger, it was imperative to act responsibly.
However, the school announced that online classes will be held for the students during the closure.
“While there is no immediate danger, we have chosen to act responsibly by taking the matter seriously and putting all necessary safety measures in place,” the statement reads.
“The school will use tomorrow to follow up fully with the appropriate authorities and receive official guidance.
“The safety and well-being of our students, staff, and families remain our highest priority, and this temporary closure allows us to ensure that all protocols are properly observed.
“This will be at the discretion of each teacher, and parents will be contacted directly if an online lesson is scheduled.”
Reacting, Abimbola Adebisi spokesperson for the Lagos state police command said it has neutralised the threat.
Adebisi said the team of responders was led by Olohundare Jimoh, the Lagos police commissioner including Explosive Ordnance Disposal, Chemical Biological Radiological and Nuclear (EOD-CBRN), and the Rapid Response Squad (RRS).
The exercise, it stated, included a comprehensive sweep of the entire school environment, including classrooms, administrative offices, halls, playgrounds.
The EOD-CBRN experts, however, ruled out any presence of Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) or any other dangerous materials.
The police commissioner, however, ordered an investigation to trace, identify, and apprehend the sender(s) of the threat message.
