DSS WARNS OF POSSIBLE TERRORIST ATTACKS ON SOKOTO TERTIARY INSTITUTIONS
The Department of State Services (DSS), Sokoto State Command, has issued a security alert over intelligence suggesting that terrorists and bandit groups may be planning attacks on universities and other tertiary institutions across the state.
The warning has heightened concerns over the safety of students, lecturers, non-academic staff and residents living within or around higher institutions in Sokoto.
According to reports, the DSS communicated the threat to the Sokoto State Government through an official letter signed on behalf of the State Director of Security by B. Abdulaziz. The document was titled, “Planned Attack on Tertiary Institutions by Terrorist and Bandit Gangs.”
The security agency said intelligence available to it indicated that some armed groups could be shifting their attention from primary and secondary schools to universities and other higher institutions.
The suspected attacks could involve the abduction of students, lecturers and other members of university communities, as well as activities aimed at disrupting academic programmes.
The DSS noted that tertiary institutions may be particularly vulnerable because of the large number of students, staff and visitors who gather there daily. It also warned that student hostels, staff quarters and private residences located close to campuses could increase the number of people exposed to danger.
Beyond possible kidnappings, the agency cautioned that any attack on a tertiary institution could lead to the suspension of academic activities, create widespread fear among students and their families, and undermine public confidence in the security of educational facilities.
The DSS consequently called on the Sokoto State Government and relevant security authorities to take preventive measures and strengthen security arrangements around universities and other tertiary institutions across the state.
It also urged closer cooperation among security and emergency-response agencies, while recommending increased surveillance around campuses and surrounding communities.
Security personnel were advised to remain alert to suspicious movements and activities around educational institutions. Schools, meanwhile, were encouraged to strengthen access-control measures and improve their capacity to respond quickly to emergencies.
The DSS stressed the importance of taking precautionary measures ahead of time to prevent the suspected threat from developing into an actual attack.
