Lucky Obukohwo, Reporting
The Edo State Government has announced the reopening of schools that were previously shut down due to security challenges in the Edo North senatorial district.
The announcement was contained in a statement issued on Friday by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Education, Enodolomwanyi Otamere, and made available to journalists in Benin City.
According to the circular, referenced MOE/PS/CIR/001 and dated June 9, 2026, the government stated that the security situation in the affected areas had been thoroughly reviewed in collaboration with security agencies and other key stakeholders.
The statement noted that following the implementation of enhanced security measures and the deployment of additional safety mechanisms across the affected communities and schools, the government is satisfied that adequate arrangements have been made to guarantee the safety and well-being of students, teachers, and other school personnel.
Consequently, all public and private schools affected by the earlier closure directive have been instructed to resume normal academic and administrative activities from Monday, June 15, 2026.
The government also directed school heads, proprietors, and relevant education authorities to make the necessary preparations for the safe return of students and staff.
They were further advised to maintain close collaboration with security agencies, community leaders, and government officials to ensure a secure and conducive learning environment.
Reassuring parents, guardians, education stakeholders, and the general public, the state government emphasized that adequate security measures have been put in place across schools in the state.
It reiterated its commitment to protecting lives and property and pledged to continue monitoring the situation while taking all necessary steps to safeguard the education sector.
Parents and guardians were also encouraged to ensure that their children and wards return to school promptly to continue their academic activities.
Truth Live News Media reports that the Edo State Government had on Wednesday, 10 2026, 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 were Ososo Grammar School, Ososo Comprehensive High School, and Makeke Secondary School.
The decision followed intelligence reports indicating that suspected kidnappers were planning attacks on schools within the area.
