Avi-Cenna International School and Grange School, situated in Lagos, have temporarily ceased all academic activities following warnings of a potential explosion.
The closure was announced by Avi-Cenna International School in a letter addressed to parents and guardians, signed by Paul Olubajo.
The school management reported that they received a threatening text message indicating a possible fire explosion on their premises.
According to the communication, the school promptly notified the authorities, who dispatched a specialized unit to evaluate the situation.
Despite the police conducting a thorough inspection and confirming that the location was safe, the school opted to remain closed for the day as a precaution.
The letter indicated, "We received a text message concerning a fire explosion threat. The police were notified immediately, and their specialized unit arrived with equipment to assess the premises. Following a detailed evaluation, they confirmed the site is secure. However, we will stay closed today."
The school management expressed regret for the interruption and reassured parents that ensuring the safety of students, staff, and the entire school community is their primary concern.
Similarly, Grange School also announced its closure via a statement from its head, Richard McMahon. While the school emphasized that there was no immediate threat, they decided to close to responsibly address the concerns and collaborate with the relevant authorities.
The statement explained, "Although there is no immediate danger, we have elected to act prudently by treating the matter seriously and implementing all necessary safety protocols."
During the closure, Grange School confirmed that online classes would continue, pending teachers' decisions on virtual engagement. Parents will be directly informed if online lessons will take place.
In response to the situation, the Lagos State Police Command issued a statement confirming they had neutralized the threat and found no explosives on school grounds.
Police spokesperson Abimbola Adebisi stated that the operation was led by Police Commissioner Olohundare Jimoh and included teams from the Explosive Ordnance Disposal and Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear unit alongside the Rapid Response Squad.
The police operation encompassed a comprehensive search of classrooms, administrative offices, auditoriums, play areas, and other school facilities, with no improvised explosive devices or hazardous materials being discovered.
Despite the clearance, the police commissioner has ordered an investigation to identify and apprehend those responsible for sending the threatening message.
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