Lucky Obukohwo, Reporting
Fears of a large-scale student abduction have compelled the Edo State Government to shut down three public secondary schools in Akoko-Edo Local Government Area amid heightened security concerns.
The affected institutions are Ososo Grammar School, Ososo Comprehensive High School, and Makeke Secondary School.
They were closed after intelligence reports suggested that suspected kidnappers were plotting attacks on schools in the area.
The precautionary measure was taken to safeguard students and staff while security agencies intensify efforts to thwart any potential threat.
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.
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 sit for their papers under special security arrangements put in place by relevant authorities and community leaders.
The government urged residents to stay alert while remaining calm, assuring the public that security agencies are actively addressing the threat.
It added that measures are being put in place to restore normal academic activities as soon as the situation is deemed safe.
