A wave of confusion spread across the education sector on Saturday as the Federal Government College (FGC) Ilorin complied with a school-closure directive, despite a separate statement from the Federal Ministry of Education debunking an earlier circular on nationwide shutdown.
The situation escalated after a circular dated 21 December 2025 purportedly from the Senior Secondary Education Department surfaced online, announcing the immediate closure of 47 Federal Unity Colleges due to security threats. The document, bearing the signature of a director in the department, instructed principals of affected schools to enforce strict compliance.
However, a few hours later, the Federal Ministry of Education issued an official press release dated 22 November 2025, distancing itself from the circulating document. The Ministry described the earlier notice as false, misleading, and not originating from the Federal Government, urging the public to disregard any unverified announcements from unofficial sources.
Despite the conflicting communications, FGC Ilorin proceeded with a full shutdown, prompting parents to arrive at the school on Saturday to retrieve their children.
A Just Event Online TV correspondent who visited the school observed mixed reactions among parents, some commending the precaution and others demanding clarity from the government.
Mrs. Olanrewaju Ganiyat, a parent, said although the closure may disrupt academics, safety must remain the priority.
“Closure of schools is not sustainable because it will affect the academic programmes of our children. I urge the government to take drastic action in fighting this menace.
They should deploy enough security operatives to protect these schools because these children are the future of this nation,” she said.
Another parent, Mrs. Ramat Bola, questioned how armed groups continue to obtain weapons and security uniforms.
“Government needs to fish out the mole in the army and other security agencies. Where do these criminals get sophisticated guns and police or army uniforms?” she asked.
The contradictory directives have deepened concerns among parents, with many calling for a unified and transparent communication system to prevent misinformation, especially on matters involving student safety.
While the Ministry insists only verified announcements from authorized channels should be trusted, the closure at FGC Ilorin underscores the uncertainty gripping many Unity College communities amid rising security fears nationwide.
