The Digest:
Two prominent private schools in Lagos, Avi-Cenna International School and Grange School, were closed on Thursday, January 23, 2026, following separate bomb threat messages. The management of Avi-Cenna informed parents it received a text message warning of a fire explosion, prompting immediate police involvement. The Lagos State Police Command deployed its Explosive Ordnance Disposal unit and Rapid Response Squad, which conducted a thorough sweep of both campuses and confirmed no explosive devices were found. Despite the all-clear from security officials, both schools opted to cancel in-person classes for the day as a precaution, with Grange School shifting to optional online learning.
Key Points:
- The incident disrupts the academic calendar and creates anxiety for students, parents, and staff in the affected school communities.
- It highlights the vulnerability of educational institutions to anonymous threats and the consequent operational and emotional toll.
- The swift, coordinated response by multiple police units demonstrates improved protocols for handling such security alerts in Lagos.
- The decision to close despite a negative security sweep reflects a risk-averse approach prioritizing safety over continuity.
- The threats raise concerns about potential copycat incidents targeting other high-profile institutions in the state.
Sources: The Cable, Vanguard
