Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), issued a strong warning on Wednesday, stating that the directors responsible for the contentious school closure document will “not be spared” and that retribution is unavoidable.
During an infrastructure inspection at A11 in Guzape, Abuja, the minister spoke to reporters and expressed fury, calling the action “unimaginable” and an act of flagrant disobedience.
According to Wike, it is inconceivable that a director would decide to close schools without permission.
He emphasized that such actions damage governance systems and questioned the boldness of junior officials making significant choices without higher authority or the presidency’s approval.
The minister further emphasized that before any significant action impacting the nation’s capital is carried out, the President must be informed.
Wike completely rejected the premise of the document, arguing that Abuja does not now have a security issue that warrants halting schools.
Recall that on Tuesday, the Federal Capital Territory Administration, or FCTA, denied rumors that government schools would close earlier than November 28, 2025.
The news was described by the FCTA as “false, malicious, and destabilizing,” with reports “capable of inciting fear and disrupting public peace.”
Aishatu Sani Alhassan, the Director of School Services of the FCT Secondary Education Board, gave the command, according to earlier accusations.
The internal memo headlined “Urgent Need for Early Closure of Schools Due To Security Concerns” gave school administrators instructions to dismiss children “in an orderly manner” and to stop academic activity.
In response to the event, Lere Olayinka, the minister’s senior special assistant for public communications, vehemently denied giving any orders regarding a modified school schedule.
Olayinka said in a press release on Tuesday night that no office or level of this government has given an order for an early shutdown.
“Well, you know in the system, sometimes you get baffled,” Wike responded to the circumstance. For this reason, it’s critical to stay up to date.
“Last night, while watching television, I noticed a school that the FCT had ordered to close. I had to call the Mandate Secretary of Education since I couldn’t believe it. Naturally, he couldn’t respond, so I had to get out more information.
“I learned that all of the schools received the circular without our consent. I am also aware that the Security Council is convening today.
“I made calls to the Commissioner of Police as well as other relevant agencies. I asked, “Who did this?” They responded, “It’s not on their agenda and there’s no way because we don’t have a threat that would force us to close the schools.”
As a result, the Mandate Secretary of Education has been placed under indefinite suspension, and the directors concerned will face consequences in accordance with civil service regulations. However, it is unthinkable that someone could make such a choice without the head of affairs being aware of it. It’s a terrible thing.
How could you have acted in this way beforehand? Even I can’t do it without informing the President. The FCT is shown here. Are you aware of what that reveals? that insecurity exists in FCT.
“Kogi, Nassarawa, and Kaduna have never closed. In what way do you think we were in danger? To ensure the safety of the schools, the security personnel do everything within their power. However, anyone complicit in this will not be forgiven.
