Residents of Obunagha community in Yenagoa Local Government Area of Bayelsa State were thrown into panic on Friday morning following reports of an alleged student kidnapping at a school in nearby Polaku community.
The development triggered fear and confusion among students, parents, and teachers, as pupils were seen hurriedly leaving their classrooms and school premises amid concerns over their safety.
Eyewitnesses said the alarm spread rapidly across neighbouring communities after unconfirmed reports emerged that some students had allegedly been abducted in Polaku. The rumours caused anxiety among school authorities and residents, leading many parents to rush to schools to pick up their children.
In Obunagha, several students were observed running home while others gathered in groups outside school compounds as school administrators sought to verify the reports and maintain calm.
A resident of the area, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said the situation created tension throughout the community as families became worried about the security of their children.
“The information spread very fast this morning. Parents became frightened and many rushed to schools.
Students were also scared and started leaving their classrooms,” the resident said.
As of the time of filing this report, authorities had yet to officially confirm the alleged kidnapping incident.
Security agencies were reportedly making efforts to ascertain the facts surrounding the reports and reassure residents.
Community leaders have appealed for calm, urging residents to avoid spreading unverified information capable of creating unnecessary panic while security agencies conduct investigations.
The incident has once again raised concerns about the safety of students and the need for enhanced security measures around schools in Bayelsa State.
Further details are expected as investigations continue and authorities provide official clarification on the situation.
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