DSS warns of planned terrorist, bandit attacks on Sokoto tertiary institutions

The Department of State Services (DSS) in Sokoto State has issued a security warning regarding potential terrorist and bandit attacks on tertiary educational institutions in the region. This alert was issued in a letter dated July 18, 2026, addressed to the Sokoto State Government and signed by the State Director of Security, B. Abdulaziz.

The letter, titled "Planned Attack on Tertiary Institutions by Terrorist and Bandit Gangs," indicates that criminal groups are shifting their focus from primary and secondary schools to universities and other higher learning institutions.

The DSS warns that tertiary institutions are attractive targets due to the concentration of students, academic and non-academic staff, and their families, which could lead to potential abductions. The department advises that attacks on these institutions could disrupt academic activities and generate fear among students and staff. To address this threat, the DSS has called for an immediate review and enhancement of security measures around tertiary institutions throughout the state.

The Department has informed relevant security and response agencies about the looming danger and urged them to deploy protective measures to thwart any potential attacks and safeguard students, staff, and educational infrastructure. Furthermore, the DSS has urged the Sokoto State Government to coordinate efforts aimed at bolstering security around universities and other tertiary institutions in the state. This cautionary alert underscores the heightened security concerns facing the state's educational system.