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 mass abduction of students.



The decision followed a security alert from the Department of State Services (DSS) warning of credible threats targeting schoolchildren in parts of Edo North Senatorial District.

The affected schools are Ososo Grammar School, Ososo Comprehensive High School and Makeke Secondary School.

In a circular issued on Wednesday, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Education, Enodolomwanyi Otamere, said the measure became necessary to protect students, teachers and members of the affected 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,” the statement read.

Otamere announced the suspension of all academic and non-academic activities in the affected schools until further notice.

However, he clarified that candidates currently participating in the ongoing West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) would continue to sit for their examinations under strict 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,” he stated.

The ministry directed school principals to ensure the orderly release of students to their parents and guardians, secure school facilities and maintain close communication with security agencies and relevant government authorities.

Parents and residents of the affected communities were also urged to remain calm and cooperate with security operatives as efforts continue to neutralise the threat and restore normal academic activities.

The latest development comes amid renewed concerns over increasing attacks on schools across the country.

On May 15, bandits reportedly abducted 39 pupils and seven teachers from three schools in the Oriire axis of Ogbomoso, Oyo State. During the attack, an assistant headmaster and a motorcyclist were killed, while one of the abducted teachers, Michael Oyedokun, was later reportedly beheaded by his captors.

Similarly, on May 16, suspected Boko Haram insurgents abducted about 42 pupils and students from Mussa Primary and Junior Secondary School in Askira/Uba Local Government Area of Borno State.