The Edo State Government has ordered the immediate closure of three secondary schools in Akoko-Edo Local Government Area following intelligence reports of a planned kidnap attack targeting students.

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

The directive was contained in a circular issued by the State Ministry of Education and signed by the Permanent Secretary, Mr Enodolomwanyi Otamere.

According to the circular dated June 9, the decision followed security advisories warning of credible threats to the safety of students, teachers, and surrounding communities.

The closure comes amid intelligence reports from the Department of State Services (DSS) indicating that suspected bandits were planning a mass abduction of schoolchildren in the Edo North Senatorial District.

A security memo dated June 5 reportedly revealed that the DSS intercepted communications between two suspected bandits who allegedly discussed targeting students after previous attempts to kidnap wealthy individuals failed to yield significant financial returns.

The suspects were said to believe that abducting schoolchildren would attract greater government attention and increase their chances of obtaining substantial ransom payments and other concessions.

The report further disclosed that a 25-year-old suspect was arrested on June 4 while allegedly conducting surveillance around Makeke Secondary School, one of the schools affected by the closure.

According to security sources, the suspect’s activities raised concerns that preparations for the planned operation may already have been underway.

In response, the DSS recommended enhanced security measures around schools and educational institutions, particularly in Edo North.

The agency also advised the deployment of additional security personnel, closer collaboration among security agencies, local vigilante groups and hunters, as well as intensified patrols and surveillance in vulnerable communities.

Explaining the government’s decision, Otamere said the safety of students and staff remained paramount.

“The Ministry of Education has received intelligence reports and advisories from relevant security agencies regarding credible threats to the safety of students, staff, and school communities in some parts of the Akoko-Edo Local Government Area,” he stated.

He announced the suspension of all academic and non-academic activities in the affected schools until further notice.

However, the government clarified that candidates participating in the ongoing West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) would continue to sit for their examinations under strict security arrangements.

“Candidates currently participating in the ongoing West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) shall be allowed access to sit for their examinations under strict security arrangements and supervision as may be provided by the relevant security agencies and community stakeholders,” Otamere said.

The permanent secretary directed school principals to ensure the orderly release of students to their parents and guardians, secure school facilities, and maintain close contact with government authorities and security agencies.

He also urged parents and residents of the affected communities to remain calm and cooperate with security agencies as efforts continue to address the threat and restore normal academic activities.