An explosive has been discovered in the premises of the Afara Unity School in Umuahia North Local Government Area of Abia State.
The state government on Thursday directed all pupils of the school to return their houses until the suspected item is certified not harmful.
As at the time of filing this report, the police anti-bomb squad had arrived in the school vicinity.
The state government further stated that it is working with relevant security agencies over the incident.
The Commissioner for information and strategy in the state, John Okiyi Kalu, in a statement, released said, “Abia State Government is currently working with relevant security agencies in the state to unravel the source and nature of the suspected explosive devices found at Union Primary School, Afaraukwu in Umuahia North LGA.
“While initial examination of the devices shows evidence of corrosion leading to suspicion of the materials being relics of the civil war era, we are awaiting a definite official report from the EOD squad of the Nigeria Police who are currently investigating the incident.
“Meanwhile, necessary measures have been taken to protect the pupils and staff of the school with security sweeps ongoing while the school is temporarily closed.
“Governor Okezie Ikpeazu has directed security agencies to embark on proactive checks in other vulnerable locations out of an abundance of caution.
“While we are grateful to God that there is no harm to life or property, we urge citizens and residents to continue to maintain vigilance and report suspicious situations to security agents.”