Edo Govt Shuts Three Schools Over Alleged Plot to Abduct Students

The Edo State Government has ordered the immediate closure of three secondary schools in Akoko-Edo Local Government Area following intelligence reports of a suspected plot by bandits to abduct 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, Mr Enodolomwanyi Otamere.

The move followed a security alert reportedly issued by the Department of State Services (DSS), which warned of plans by suspected kidnappers 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 bandits who allegedly discussed targeting students after previous attempts to kidnap wealthy individuals failed to generate the expected financial returns.

The suspects reportedly believed that abducting schoolchildren would attract greater government attention and increase their chances of securing huge ransom payments and concessions.

Further details obtained by this online newspaper revealed that a 25-year-old suspect was arrested on June 4 while allegedly conducting surveillance around Makeke Secondary School, raising fears that preparations for the planned operation may have already commenced.

Following the development, the DSS advised authorities to beef up security around schools and other educational institutions, particularly across Edo North. The agency also recommended the deployment of additional security personnel, enhanced collaboration among security agencies, vigilante groups and hunters, as well as intensified patrols in vulnerable communities.

Explaining the decision to shut the schools, Otamere said the ministry acted on credible security advisories warning of threats to the safety of 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 had been suspended indefinitely to protect lives and property.

However, candidates 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 orderly release of students to their parents and guardians, secure school facilities and maintain close communication with government authorities and security agencies.

He also appealed to parents and residents to remain calm and cooperate with security agencies as efforts continue to neutralise the threat and restore normal academic activities.