By Samuel Ike, Abuja

The Department of State Services (DSS) has alerted the Sokoto State Government to an alleged plot by terrorists and bandit groups to launch attacks on tertiary institutions across the state, warning that the threat could result in the abduction of students, lecturers, non-academic staff, and their family members.

According to a security alert issued by the Sokoto State Command of the DSS on August 18, intelligence reports indicate that criminal groups are shifting their focus from primary and secondary schools to universities and other higher institutions. The agency described the development as a significant security concern that requires urgent attention.

The DSS noted that tertiary institutions have become attractive targets because of their large populations of students, academic personnel, support staff, and residents within campus communities. The agency warned that any successful attack could have far-reaching consequences for the education sector and national security.

The security service further stated that the alleged plans go beyond kidnapping for ransom, suggesting that the attacks could be part of a broader strategy aimed at disrupting academic activities, creating widespread fear, and eroding public confidence in the government’s ability to safeguard lives and critical institutions.

According to the DSS, an attack on any tertiary institution in Sokoto could negatively impact Nigeria’s international image and further worsen the security challenges confronting educational institutions in parts of the country. The agency stressed that proactive security measures are essential to prevent such incidents rather than responding after an attack has occurred.

To address the emerging threat, the DSS called for an immediate strengthening of security architecture around universities, polytechnics, colleges of education, and other higher institutions across the state. It also disclosed that relevant security and emergency response agencies have been notified and urged to implement appropriate countermeasures to forestall any planned attacks.

The agency appealed to the Sokoto State Government to treat the intelligence report with utmost seriousness and take swift, coordinated action to enhance security around educational facilities. It emphasized the need for increased surveillance, intelligence gathering, and collaboration among security agencies to ensure the safety of students, staff, and critical infrastructure.

The warning comes amid ongoing concerns over attacks on educational institutions in parts of northern Nigeria, where criminal groups have previously targeted schools and students for abduction. Security experts have repeatedly called for stronger protective measures around learning environments to prevent disruptions to education and safeguard the future of young Nigerians.