The Edo State Government has ordered the immediate closure of three secondary schools in Akoko-Edo Local Government Area following intelligence reports warning of a planned kidnapping attack targeting students.
The affected schools are Ososo Grammar School, Ososo Comprehensive High School, and Makeke Secondary School. The directive was contained in a circular issued by the State Ministry of Education and signed by the Permanent Secretary, Enodolomwanyi Otamere.
The decision follows a security alert reportedly issued by the Department of State Services (DSS), which warned of an alleged plot by suspected bandits to carry out a mass abduction of schoolchildren in Edo North Senatorial District.
According to intelligence reports, security operatives intercepted communications between two suspected kidnappers who allegedly discussed shifting their focus to schoolchildren after previous attempts to kidnap wealthy individuals failed to generate the expected financial returns. The suspects reportedly believed that abducting students would attract greater government attention and increase the likelihood of receiving substantial ransom payments.
The report further revealed that a 25-year-old suspect was arrested on June 4 while allegedly conducting surveillance around Makeke Secondary School, one of the institutions later shut down by the government. Security agencies believe the suspect’s activities may indicate that preparations for the planned operation were already underway.
In response to the threat, the DSS advised authorities to strengthen security around schools and other educational institutions, particularly across Edo North. The agency also recommended deploying additional security personnel, increasing surveillance, and enhancing collaboration among security agencies, local vigilante groups, and hunters.
Explaining the government’s action, Otamere said the closure was necessary to protect students, teachers, and surrounding communities.
“The Ministry of Education has received intelligence reports and advisories from relevant security agencies regarding credible threats to the safety of students, staff, and school communities in some parts of Akoko-Edo Local Government Area,” he stated.
He added that all academic and non-academic activities in the affected schools have been suspended indefinitely as a precautionary measure.
However, students currently participating in the ongoing West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) will still be allowed access to examination centres under strict security arrangements.
Otamere directed school principals to ensure the safe release of students to their parents and guardians, secure school facilities, and maintain communication with relevant authorities and security agencies.
He also appealed to parents and residents of the affected communities to remain calm and cooperate with security operatives as efforts continue to address the security concerns and restore normal academic activities.
The school closures come amid growing concerns over rising cases of kidnapping and attacks on schools across Nigeria. In recent years, several communities and educational institutions have been targeted by armed groups, leading to the abduction of students and residents.
Meanwhile, Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo recently blamed opposition politicians for worsening insecurity in the country, alleging that some kidnappings are politically motivated efforts aimed at undermining the administration of President Bola Tinubu.
Security agencies continue to intensify efforts to combat criminal activities and prevent further attacks on schools and vulnerable communities across the country.
