According to a student of GDSS, there had been a long-standing disagreement between both schools which share the same compound but are separated by a fence. Meanwhile, a teacher in one of the schools disclosed that tension had been building up between the students before their exams which were concluded on Thursday. The cause of the clash is yet to be officially confirmed by the authorities.
The Kwara State Government has condemned the clash and warned against a repeat of such incidents. The government through the Honourable Commissioner for Education and Human Capital Development, Hajia Fatimoh Ahmed, expressed its commitment to ensuring the safety of students and staff of schools across the state.
Ahmed stated that the government would investigate the cause of the clash and bring those responsible to book. She also called on parents and guardians to caution their wards against any act of violence and urged school authorities to maintain strict security measures on their premises.
Meanwhile, the Nigeria Police Force has confirmed the arrest of some students in connection with the clash. According to the Police Public Relations Officer in Kwara State, SP Ajayi Okasanmi, some suspects had been apprehended and were assisting with investigations. Okasanmi also assured the public that the police were on top of the situation and would ensure that the perpetrators face the full wrath of the law.
The clash has led to the temporary closure of the affected schools pending investigations and restoration of normalcy. In a statement, the Kwara State Ministry of Education and Human Capital Development directed the closure of the schools to prevent further escalation of the crisis.
The statement added that students and staff of the affected schools should stay away from the premises until the government gives further directives. The ministry also assured that efforts were ongoing to restore peace and order in the area.