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From Tony Osauzo, Benin
Edo State Government, yesterday, announced the immediate closure of three schools in Akoko Edo Local Government Area of the State.
They are Ososo Grammar School, Ososo; Ososo Comprehensive High School, Ososo and Makeke Secondary School, Makeke.
Chief Press Secretary to Governor Monday Okpebholo, Patrick Akhere, in a statement, said the decision was taken by the governor as part of the government’s commitment to safeguard the lives and property of citizens, particularly students, teachers and school personnel.
“Consequently, all academic and non-academic activities in the affected schools are suspended with immediate effect, pending further directives from the government.
“However, students currently sitting for the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) will be allowed access to their examination centres under strict security arrangements coordinated by school authorities, security agencies and community leaders.
“The principals of the affected schools are directed to ensure the safe and orderly release of students to their parents and guardians.
“Secure all school facilities, equipment and property throughout the closure period.
“Maintain regular communication with the Edo State Government, the Chief Inspector of Education and relevant security agencies.
“Strictly comply with any additional directives issued by the government,” the statement added.
It advised parents, guardians and residents of the affected communities to remain calm, vigilant and cooperate fully with security agencies as efforts are intensified to maintain peace and ensure public safety.
The government assured the public that all necessary measures were being taken to address the situation and restore normal academic activities as soon as conditions permitted.
The closure of the schools followed an advisory from the Department of State Services (DSS) addressed to the State Commandant of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) and dated June 5, 2026.
The DSS said it received intelligence of planned mass abduction of school children, particularly in Edo North by bandits.
“This follows an interception between suspected bandits, BAWA (FNU), suspected to be of Fulani extraction from Zamfara State and NUHU (FNU).
“During the conversation, the duo disclosed their plans to kidnap school children in Edo North, as previous attempts to kidnap wealthy individuals had not yielded the expected financial gains.
“To this end, they concluded that abducting school children would attract greater government attention and potentially increase the likelihood of huge ransom payments and concessions.
“On June 4, Emmanuel MOMIDU (25yrs) was apprehended while he was perceived to be surveilling Makeke Secondary School at Makeke Community, Akoko Edo LGA.”
The DSS advised that counter measures be placed around schools in the state with focus on Edo North, to strengthen security around schools and other educational institutions.
“This may include the deployment of personnel to vulnerable schools and communities in collaboration with ESSC, local vigilantes and hunters, as well as intensified security patrols in vulnerable areas to enhance surveillance,” the security agency stated.
