The Edo State Government has ordered the immediate closure of three secondary schools in Akoko-Edo Local Government Area following reports of a planned attack targeting students.
The decision was announced in a circular issued by the Edo State Ministry of Education and signed by the Permanent Secretary, Enodolomwanyi Otamere.
The closure followed security information reportedly received from the Department of State Services (DSS), which warned of a possible plot by suspected bandits to abduct school children in Edo North Senatorial District.
According to reports, security operatives intercepted conversations between two suspected bandits who allegedly discussed changing their targets from wealthy individuals to school children after previous kidnap attempts failed to bring in the money they expected.
The intelligence report stated that the suspects believed abducting students could attract greater government attention and improve their chances of receiving large ransom payments and other demands.
Kano first
Security concerns grew further after the arrest of a 25-year-old suspect on June 4. The suspect was reportedly found carrying out surveillance activities around Makeke Secondary School in Makeke community, one of the schools later shut down by the government.
Authorities fear the arrest may indicate that plans for the operation were already in progress before security agencies intervened.
Following the development, security agencies advised the government to strengthen protection around schools and other educational institutions, particularly in Edo North.
They also recommended increased patrols, improved surveillance and stronger cooperation among security agencies, local vigilante groups and hunters.
In its directive, the Ministry of Education said the closure became necessary after receiving security warnings about threats to students, teachers and surrounding communities within parts of Akoko-Edo Local Government Area.
As a result, all academic and non-academic activities in the three schools have been suspended until further notice while authorities work to address the security concerns and protect lives and property.
Despite the shutdown, students currently writing the ongoing West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) will still be allowed to sit for their papers.
The government said special security arrangements would be put in place to ensure their safety during the examinations.
The ministry also instructed principals of the affected schools to ensure students are safely released to their parents and guardians. School administrators were further directed to secure school facilities and maintain communication with government officials and security agencies.
Parents and residents of the affected communities have been urged to remain calm and cooperate with security personnel as efforts continue to tackle the threat and restore normal academic activities in the area.