Police raise alarm over Terrorists, Informants spying on schools

The Nigeria Police Force has raised the alarm over suspicious activities by suspected terrorists and their informants, who are reportedly gathering intelligence on schools and other vulnerable targets across the country.

The warning comes amid heightened security concerns surrounding educational institutions, following a series of attacks and abductions involving schools in different parts of Nigeria.

According to the report, intelligence available to security authorities indicates that some individuals are monitoring potential targets and collecting information that could assist terrorist groups in planning attacks.

Educational institutions are among the locations considered vulnerable, alongside other potential targets.

The police alert is intended to increase public vigilance and encourage communities to report suspicious movements or activities to security agencies.

Schools remain vulnerable targets

The warning comes against the background of renewed concerns over the safety of Nigerian schools.

Recent security incidents have forced some schools to introduce additional protective measures, including surveillance cameras, stronger perimeter fencing and escape routes to provide students and staff with possible means of evacuation during an attack.

Security agencies have also previously issued warnings about threats to educational institutions. In August, the Department of State Services alerted the Sokoto State Government to planned terrorist attacks and kidnappings targeting tertiary institutions.

Intelligence gathering raises concern

The involvement of informants is particularly significant because terrorists often depend on local intelligence to identify vulnerable locations, understand movement patterns and determine the best time to strike.

Police authorities are therefore urging members of the public, school authorities and communities to remain alert and provide useful information that could help security agencies prevent attacks.

The latest warning adds to growing pressure on federal and state authorities to strengthen security around schools as students return to classrooms.

Earlier attacks have demonstrated the consequences of inadequate protection, including the abduction of pupils, teachers and other school workers. Terrorists abducted pupils from schools in Oyo State in May, while a separate attack in Borno State led to the abduction of students.

The latest alert therefore puts renewed focus on the need for intelligence-led security, community cooperation and stronger protection for schools and other vulnerable public institutions.