Calm on Tuesday returned to the 10 troubled grant-aided schools in Ilorin after days of controversy and protest over the use of hijab.
Students and teachers reportedly resumed under strict security surveillance to forestall any possible breakdown of law and order.
According to a press statement by the chief press secretary, Rafiu Ajakaye, the governor commended leaders of various religious bodies for their understanding and leadership over the last few days as the administration gets the children back to school following the hijaab decision.
The statement reads in part: “The administration appreciates the maturity and forthrightness on both sides. The government is immensely grateful that every side has continued to restrain their followers, and especially credits the religious leaders on both sides and the security agencies for the gains already recorded.
“To this effect, the government condemns in no unmistakeable terms the attempts by some fifth columnists to foment trouble in parts of the metropolis. The government will never condone this reckless behaviour and the security agencies have their instructions to deal ruthlessly with anyone who attacks fellow citizens or makes any attempts on sacred places or properties under whatever disguise. The attempt is devilish and was clearly meant to undermine the progress so far made to build peace and harmony.
“Parents are urged to call their children to order immediately. Anyone found fomenting trouble will have themselves to blame.
“The ongoing dialogue with various stakeholders will continue unhindered and the government urges leaders on all sides to continue to play their roles as statesmen without allowing any fifth columnists to provoke them or derail the peace efforts.”
The affected schools shut by the government as a result of the crisis are C&S College Sabo Oke, ST. Anthony College, Offa Road, ECWA School, Oja Iya, Surulere Baptist Secondary School and Bishop Smith Secondary School, Agba Dam.
Others include CAC Secondary School Asa Dam, St. Barnabas Secondary School Sabo Oke, St. John School Maraba, and St. Williams Secondary School Taiwo Isale, St. James Secondary School Maraba, all in Ilorin, the state capital.
