Zamfara Govt Orders Immediate Closure of All Schools Amid Protest

The Zamfara State Government has announced the immediate closure of all schools across the state, effective Wednesday, August 1, 2024. The decision was approved by Mallam Wadatau Madawaki, the Honourable Commissioner of the State Ministry of Education, Science, and Technology, as a precautionary measure in light of potential security threats linked to a planned nationwide protest.

In an official statement released by Dr. Barira Ibrahim Bagobiri, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Education, Science, and Technology, the government emphasized that the closure is a proactive step to ensure the safety of students. “This measure has been taken to avert any security threat that may befall our students on their way to school due to the planned nationwide protest,” Dr. Bagobiri stated.

The closure affects all educational institutions across Zamfara State, including primary, secondary, and tertiary institutions. The government has urged parents and guardians to keep their children at home and remain vigilant during this period of heightened security concerns.

In addition to the closure of schools, the Ministry of Education, Science, and Technology has also announced the suspension of the ongoing Junior Leaving Certificate (JLC) Examinations. The Ministry assured students and parents that a new date for the continuation of the exams will be communicated in due course.

Zamfara State, like many other regions in Nigeria, has faced significant security challenges in recent years, including banditry, kidnapping, and communal violence. The decision to close schools is part of broader efforts by the state government to prevent any escalation of violence or disruption to public order during the planned protest.

The Ministry of Education, Science, and Technology has called on all residents to cooperate with security agencies and adhere to the directives issued by the government. Further updates on the situation will be provided as they become available.

The nationwide protest, which has prompted this precautionary measure, is reportedly being organized in response to various socio-economic issues facing the country. While the specifics of the protest are still unfolding, authorities in Zamfara State are taking no chances, prioritizing the safety and well-being of students and staff in the education sector.

As the situation develops, the government remains committed to ensuring the security of all residents and will continue to monitor the situation closely.