The Lagos State Police Command on Thursday confirmed that a bomb threat reported at two private schools in the Ikeja Government Reserved Area (GRA) was false, following a thorough security sweep that found no explosives on the premises.
According to reports, around 4:00 p.m. on Tuesday, January 20, 2026, the Human Resources Manager and Chief Security Officer of the schools (names withheld) separately reported receiving threatening WhatsApp messages from an unknown number, claiming that explosive devices had been planted inside the school compounds. The messages prompted panic, leading to the schools’ closure on Wednesday.
The Lagos State Police have launched an investigation to identify and apprehend the sender of the messages. Efforts are being intensified to trace the phone number and uncover the identity of those responsible, with a view to prosecuting them under the law.
Upon receiving the report, Commissioner of Police, CP Olohundare Jimoh, personally led a team of operatives, including experts from the Explosive Ordnance Disposal, Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear (EOD-CBRN) Unit, the Rapid Response Squad (RRS), and other tactical units, to the schools for an immediate on-site assessment on Wednesday.
In addition, the Commander of 9 Brigade, Nigerian Army, Brigadier General Ayokunle Owolabi, visited the schools yesterday to assess the situation.
Spokesperson for the Lagos State Police Command, SP Abimbola Adebisi, said:
“A meticulous and comprehensive sweep of classrooms, offices, halls, playgrounds, and surrounding premises was conducted by EOD-CBRN experts. No explosives, hazardous, or suspicious materials were found, and the schools were declared safe for continued academic and administrative activities.”
She added that the investigation will continue, with police working to trace, identify, and apprehend the sender(s) of the threat. Combined police teams have also been strategically deployed to the schools to provide round-the-clock security for students, staff, and facilities.
SP Adebisi reassured the public:
“The Lagos State Police Command remains proactive and fully committed to maintaining peace, safety, and public order across the state. Parents, guardians, and school authorities are urged to remain calm, vigilant, and report any suspicious activity immediately to the nearest police station or through the emergency numbers: 07061019374, 08065154338, 08063299264, 08039344870, 09168630929.”
