Authorities confirm students safe at Government Girls College after false alarm causes panic, reassuring parents and restoring calm on campus.
The Government Girls College in Maiduguri became the center of panic on Monday evening, November 24, 2025, when unverified reports of an attack caused students to flee in fear.
The Borno State Police Command has since confirmed that the incident was a false alarm, reassuring parents, teachers, and the public that all students are safe.
Authorities emphasized that rapid intervention prevented injuries or any serious disruption to school activities.
ASP Nahum Kenneth Daso, Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), explained that the confusion started near the staff quarters’ gate, where some students reported seeing unidentified individuals behind the school fence.
“The sighting led to fear and a brief stampede, but our officers quickly intervened, ensuring that everyone remained safe,” he said.
The swift police response prevented the situation from escalating into a more serious panic incident.
Following a distress call received at approximately 7:30 p.m., a team led by the Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of Operations, DCP Garba Audu Bosso, was immediately dispatched to the Government Girls College.
Officers conducted an on-the-spot assessment, confirming that there was no threat to the students.
Preliminary investigations revealed that the minor stampede was triggered solely by heightened anxiety among the students, rather than any real danger.
The Commissioner of Police, CP Naziru Abdulmajid, has called on the public to remain calm and avoid spreading unverified information.
“The Borno State Police are committed to the safety of all residents, including students. We urge everyone to rely on verified updates and avoid spreading rumors that could cause unnecessary fear,” CP Abdulmajid stated.
The Special Adviser to Governor Babagana Umara Zulum on Media, Dauda Iliya, also refuted the panic claims, confirming that security agencies were promptly deployed and restored order.
To closely monitor the situation, a government delegation—including the Commissioner of Education, the Chief Adviser on Sustainable Development, and the Special Adviser on Media—visited the Government Girls College to assess the school’s environment and ensure students’ safety.
“This visit reassured students, staff, and parents that the situation was under control,” Iliya said.
“The public should disregard any misinformation regarding the alleged attack.”
Security measures within the school have since been reinforced, with regular patrols and rapid-response protocols in place to protect students against potential threats.
Experts note that panic incidents, even when no real threat exists, can escalate quickly in school environments.
Misinterpretations of routine activities or unusual movements can trigger fear-driven responses, such as stampedes.
The quick response by the Borno State Police demonstrates the effectiveness of preparedness and rapid intervention in preventing minor incidents from turning into crises.
Authorities have also committed to ongoing school safety initiatives, including training for students on how to respond calmly during emergencies and communicate effectively with security personnel.
Programs like these at the Government Girls College aim to reduce anxiety, strengthen awareness, and maintain a safe educational environment.
Parents of students at the school have expressed relief at the authorities’ response.
Many praised the swift police deployment and the hands-on approach of government officials, noting that such actions foster trust and confidence in the school’s safety protocols.
The proactive approach by both the Borno State Police and government representatives ensured that the temporary panic did not result in any serious consequences.
After the incident, normal school activities resumed the following day, with classes continuing as scheduled.
Teachers and administrators reassured students, emphasizing that their safety is a top priority.
The authorities’ combined efforts highlight the importance of rapid communication, verified reporting, and strategic intervention during incidents that have the potential to incite fear.
The incident at Government Girls College also underscores the responsibility of students, staff, and the public to avoid spreading rumors or misinformation.
False reports can cause unnecessary alarm and disrupt the educational process.
Authorities are urging the public to report unusual activities only through official channels to ensure that security responses are appropriate and timely.
The temporary panic at Government Girls College serves as a reminder of the importance of vigilance, preparedness, and responsible communication in school environments.
Parents and community members are encouraged to rely on official sources to stay informed and avoid spreading unverified reports.
