Wike Suspends Education Secretary Over False Early School Closure Directive

Nyesom Wike, minister of the Federal Capital Territory, has suspended Danlami Hayyo, the mandate secretary for education, after reports circulated that public schools in Abuja had been instructed to close their doors by November 28.

The controversy stemmed from a memo issued earlier in the week by Aishatu Sani Alhassan, director of school services, directing all senior secondary schools in the capital to end academic activities on or before Friday due to alleged security threats. The document ordered principals to dismiss students immediately “in an orderly and safe manner.”

The minister’s office swiftly countered the claim. In a statement, Lere Olayinka, senior special assistant on public communications and social media, said the administration had not approved any early closure of schools and emphasized that no such decision was taken at any level. He added that acting head of service Nancy Sabanti Nathan had been instructed to initiate disciplinary procedures against Alhassan for issuing the directive.

Calling the reports “false and misleading,” the administration urged parents, students and school officials to continue with normal activities, noting that the approved academic calendar remains unchanged. Officials reassured residents that security across the FCT is being reinforced, with the minister ordering the resumption of operation sweep and additional measures to enhance safety around schools and nearby communities.