By Raphael Okhiria
Worried by the high level intelligence reports of an alleged plot by suspected bandits to carry out mass abductions of school children, the Edo state government has ordered the temporary closure of three secondary schools in Akoko-Edo Local Government Area of the state.
The affected schools included Ososo Grammar School, Ososo; Ososo Comprehensive High School, Ososo; and Makeke Secondary School, Makeke.
The state government through the ministry of Education, in a circular dated June 9 and signed by the Permanent Secretary, Mrs. Enodolomwanyi Otamere,
said decision followed a security alert issued by the Department of State Services (DSS), which warned of plans by criminal elements to target students in Edo North Senatorial District of the state.
Investigation revealed that the DSS intelligence memo dated June 5, 2026, said it had intercepted communications between two suspected bandits, identified as Bawa and Nuhu, revealed discussions about shifting their focus to school children after previous attempts to kidnap wealthy individuals reportedly failed to generate the expected financial gains.
The DSS report indicated that the suspects believed the abduction of pupils and students would attract greater government attention and improve their chances of securing substantial ransom payments.
It was further disclosed that a 25-year-old suspect, Emmanuel Momidu, was arrested on June 4, 2026 while allegedly conducting surveillance around Makeke Secondary School in Akoko-Edo LGA.
According to the DDS report, ”Security operatives became suspicious of his activities, raising concerns that preparations were underway for the planned operation.”
But in order to prevent the impending attack, the Edo State Ministry of Education, in a circular dated June 9, 2026 and signed by the Permanent Secretary, Mrs. Enodolomwanyi Otamere, directed the immediate suspension of all academic and non-academic activities in the three affected schools.
The ministry said the measure was necessary to safeguard the lives of students, teachers and members of the affected communities pending further security assessments.
The circular however stated, “candidates participating in the ongoing West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) will be allowed access to sit for their examinations under strict security arrangements to be coordinated by security agencies and community stakeholders.
“School principals were directed to ensure the safe release of students to their parents and guardians, secure school facilities during the closure period, and maintain close communication with education authorities and security agencies”, the statement added.
The statement, however called on parents and residents of the affected communities were urged to remain calm and cooperate with security agencies as efforts continue to ensure the safety of students and restore normal academic activities.
The DSS called for the deployment of additional security personnel to vulnerable schools and communities, intensified patrols, and stronger collaboration among security agencies, local vigilante groups and hunters to prevent any attempted attack.