Subscribe: Gist E-Paper
The Edo State Government has ordered the immediate closure of three secondary schools in Akoko-Edo Local Government Area following intelligence reports of an alleged plot to abduct students in the area.
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 Ministry of Education and signed by the Permanent Secretary, Mr Enodolomwanyi Otamere.
The decision followed a security alert reportedly issued by the Department of State Services (DSS), warning of plans 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 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 were said to believe that abducting students would attract greater government attention and improve their chances of securing substantial ransom payments and concessions.
Security concerns heightened after the arrest of a 25-year-old suspect on June 4. The individual was allegedly caught conducting surveillance around Makeke Secondary School, raising fears that preparations for the planned operation were already underway.
In response, the DSS advised authorities to strengthen security around schools and other educational institutions, particularly in vulnerable communities across Edo North. The agency also recommended increased deployment of security personnel, enhanced collaboration among security agencies, local vigilantes and hunters, as well as intensified patrols and surveillance.
Explaining the government's action, Otamere said the closure was based on credible security advisories regarding threats to 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 announced the suspension of all academic and non-academic activities in the affected schools until further notice as part of efforts to safeguard lives and property.
The permanent secretary, however, clarified that candidates participating in the ongoing West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) would continue to sit for their papers under strict security arrangements.
“Candidates currently participating in the ongoing 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,” he said.
Otamere directed school principals to ensure the orderly release of students to their parents and guardians, secure school facilities and maintain close contact with government authorities and security agencies.
He also appealed to parents and residents of the affected communities to remain calm and cooperate with security agencies as efforts continue to neutralise the threat and restore normal academic activities.
