Pan-Atlantic University declares campus safe after bandit scare

Pan-Atlantic University (PAU), Lagos, has declared its campus safe and directed students to resume normal activities after an overnight security operation triggered by reports of suspected bandit-like men within the institution’s premises.

The latest development comes less than 24 hours after the university ordered students to remain indoors while a joint security operation involving the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services (DSS), the Nigerian Army, and the Nigerian Navy swept the campus.

In an update issued on Wednesday morning by the university’s Student Affairs Office, the institution said extensive security operations and verification by relevant authorities had confirmed that there was no immediate threat to members of the university community.

“Following our communication last night regarding the security situation on campus, we are pleased to inform you that the situation is now under control and all clear,” the advisory stated.

“After extensive security operations and verification by the relevant authorities, there is currently no imminent threat to any member of the University community.”

The university subsequently directed students to resume their normal activities on campus.

“Accordingly, normal activities on campus should resume. Students scheduled to sit for examinations are advised to proceed to their examination venues as scheduled,” the statement added.

PAU, located along the Lekki-Epe Expressway in Ibeju-Lekki, had on Tuesday night advised students to stay inside their hostels after reports emerged of unauthorised persons within the campus.

The university also warned students that they could hear gunfire and other sounds associated with security operations as armed personnel conducted a comprehensive sweep of the institution’s green areas.

Although the university has now declared the campus safe, it urged students to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to security officials.

“Please minimise unnecessary movement, stay alert, and promptly report any suspicious or unusual activity to Security Services,” the advisory said.

The institution also acknowledged that the incident may have caused anxiety among students and encouraged those requiring support to reach out to the Student Affairs Office, counsellors, mentors, or other trusted members of staff.

PAU thanked students for their cooperation and adherence to safety directives during the operation, stressing that their safety and well-being remain the university’s highest priority.

The university has yet to disclose whether any suspects were arrested during the security operation or provide further details on the circumstances that prompted Tuesday night’s security alert.