The Edo State government has ordered an immediate shutdown of three secondary schools in Akoko-Edo LGA after the State Security Service, SSS, flagged a credible threat of mass student abductions.
The directive came Wednesday, following an intelligence memo dated June 5. The SSS told the NSCDC that suspected bandits were planning to shift targets from wealthy individuals to schoolchildren in Edo North Senatorial District, believing kidnapping students would force faster government response and higher ransom payouts.
Three schools were affected: Ososo Grammar School, Ososo Comprehensive High School, and Makeke Secondary School. The closure order was signed Tuesday by Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Education, Enodolomwanyi Otamere.
Concerns spiked after a 25-year-old suspect was arrested near Makeke Secondary School while allegedly conducting surveillance. The SSS memo quoted intercepted chats between suspects “Bawa” and “Nuhu” detailing the new tactic after previous attempts on rich targets failed.
Otamere said all academic and non-academic activities are suspended until further notice to protect students and staff. The only exception is WASSCE candidates, who will access designated exam centers under heavy security.
Principals were told to release students safely to parents, secure facilities, and work closely with security agencies. The SSS recommended more personnel, patrols, and collaboration with Edo Security Corps, vigilantes, and local hunters across vulnerable schools in Edo North.
The move reflects a wider pattern of attacks on schools across Nigeria. Similar abductions were recently reported in Oyo State, fueling fresh calls for stronger school security nationwide.
