Edo state govt shuts down schools as DSS allegedly uncovers plot to abduct students

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 att@ck targeting students.

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The directive, contained in a circular issued by the State Ministry of Education and signed by its Permanent Secretary, Enodolomwanyi Otamere, gave the name sof the affected chool as Ososo Grammar School, Ososo Comprehensive High School and Makeke Secondary School.

The authorities said the decision was taken as a precautionary measure to safeguard students, teachers, and other school personnel amid growing security concerns in the area.

Otamare said that in spite of the closure, candidates currently sitting for the ongoing West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) would continue to have access to examination centres 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,” he said.

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

The closure comes against the backdrop of a security intelligence report by the Department of State Services (DSS) dated June 5 and addresed to the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corp NSCDC. In the report, the DSS warned of an alleged plan by suspected bandits to carry out a mass abduction of school children in Edo North Senatorial District.

The agency said it intercepted communications between two suspected bandits who allegedly discussed targeting school children after earlier attempts to k!dnap wealthy individuals failed to yield expected financial gains. The report indicates that the suspects believed abducting students will attract greater government attention and increase their chances of securing substantial ransom payments and other concessions.

The memo further revealed that a 25-year-old suspect was arrested on June 4 while allegedly conducting surveillance around Makeke Secondary School in the Makeke community, one of the schools subsequently shut by the government.

The DSS recommended the deployment of additional security personnel, enhanced collaboration among security agencies, local vigilante groups and hunters, as well as intensified patrols and surveillance in vulnerable communities.