Edo closes three schools over kidnap threat in Akoko-Edo

Edo State Government has ordered the closure of three public secondary schools in Akoko-Edo Local Government Area following fears of a possible mass student abduction.

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

Decisions followed intelligence reports indicating that suspected kidnappers were planning attacks on schools within the area.

Authorities said the temporary closure is a precautionary measure aimed at protecting students and staff while security agencies work to neutralise the threat and strengthen safety in the affected communities.

The closure directive, issued by the Ministry of Education and signed by Permanent Secretary Enodolomwanyi Otamere, followed warnings from security agencies about threats to the safety of students, teachers and surrounding communities.

Security sources said intelligence gathered by the Department of State Services (DSS) pointed to plans by suspected bandits to kidnap schoolchildren in Edo North after earlier attempts to abduct wealthy residents reportedly failed to generate the expected financial rewards.

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Investigators were said to have intercepted communications suggesting that the suspects viewed students as more attractive targets because such incidents often trigger swift government intervention and higher ransom negotiations.

Concerns deepened after security operatives arrested a 25-year-old man allegedly carrying out surveillance around Makeke Secondary School on June 4.

Authorities believe the development may indicate that preparations for the operation had already begun.

In response, security agencies advised the state government to strengthen protection around schools and other public institutions.

Recommendations included increased deployment of security personnel, enhanced intelligence gathering, joint operations involving local vigilantes and hunters, and intensified patrols across vulnerable communities.

Announcing the closure, the Ministry of Education said the move was a precautionary measure aimed at protecting lives while security agencies work to assess and neutralise the threat.

The suspension affects all academic and administrative activities in the three schools until further notice.

However, students participating in the ongoing West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) will continue to write their examinations under enhanced security measures implemented by the relevant authorities and community leaders.