Police debunk Abuja school kidnap alarm

By Kingsley Omonobi

ABUJA — The Federal Capital Territory Police Command has dismissed reports of a kidnapping at Phase 1 Primary School in Gbagalape, Abuja, calling the claim a false alarm.

SP Josephine Adeh, the Command’s spokesperson, said the incident, which caused panic among pupils and residents, prompted an immediate police response but investigations confirmed that no kidnapping took place.

Adeh explained that officers from the Nyanya Division received a distress call at about 10:30 a.m. on Thursday alleging that kidnappers had entered the school.

“Upon receipt of the report, the Divisional Police Officer, DPO, Nyanya Division, immediately mobilised officers and surveillance teams to the scene,” she said.

She added that preliminary investigations revealed some pupils suddenly shouted “kidnappers” and fled the premises, creating confusion among teachers and the surrounding community.

Security operatives cordoned off the school and conducted a thorough search of the premises.

“Following extensive search and questioning of persons within and around the school premises, no kidnapping incident was established, no suspect was sighted, and no victim was identified,” Adeh stated.

Police teams also searched surrounding hills, boundaries, and adjoining areas, and visited nearby schools as part of precautionary security measures.

The spokesperson urged the public to remain calm and avoid spreading unverified information that could cause unnecessary fear and tension.

“The Command therefore urges members of the public to remain calm and refrain from spreading unverified information capable of creating unnecessary panic and tension within communities,” she said.

Meanwhile, Commissioner of Police, FCT Command Ahmed Muhammed Sanusi, encouraged residents to report suspicious activities and emergencies promptly to the nearest police station or through the Command’s emergency channels.

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