The Edo State Government has ordered the immediate closure of three secondary schools in Akoko-Edo Local Government Area following intelligence reports of a planned kidnapping attack targeting students.
The directive, issued by the State Ministry of Education and signed by the Permanent Secretary, Enodolomwanyi Otamere, affects Ososo Grammar School, Ososo Comprehensive High School, and Makeke Secondary School.
According to the ministry, the precautionary measure was taken to safeguard students, teachers, and other school personnel amid growing security concerns in the area.
Despite the closure, candidates participating in the ongoing West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) will continue to sit for their examinations under enhanced security arrangements.
“Candidates currently participating in the ongoing West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) shall be allowed access to sit for their examinations under strict security arrangements and supervision as may be provided by the relevant security agencies and community stakeholders,” Otamere stated.
The permanent secretary directed school principals to ensure the orderly release of students to their parents and guardians, secure school facilities, and maintain close communication with government authorities and security agencies.
The decision follows a security intelligence report reportedly issued by the Department of State Services (DSS) on June 5 and addressed to the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC). The report warned of an alleged plot by suspected bandits to carry out a mass abduction of schoolchildren in Edo North Senatorial District.
According to the intelligence report, security operatives intercepted communications between suspected bandits who allegedly discussed targeting students after previous attempts to kidnap wealthy individuals failed to generate the expected financial returns.
The report further indicated that the suspects believed abducting schoolchildren could attract greater government attention and increase the likelihood of receiving substantial ransom payments.
Security sources also disclosed that a 25-year-old suspect was arrested on June 4 while allegedly conducting surveillance around Makeke Secondary School, one of the institutions affected by the closure order.
The DSS reportedly recommended the deployment of additional security personnel, stronger collaboration among security agencies, local vigilante groups, and hunters, as well as intensified patrols and surveillance across vulnerable communities.
Authorities have assured residents that efforts are underway to prevent any security breach and ensure the safety of students and school personnel in the affected areas.