DSS Intelligence Prompts Closure of Three Edo Schools Over Kidnap Threat

An intelligence report from the Department of State Services (DSS) warning of a suspected plot to abduct schoolchildren in Edo North Senatorial District has forced the Edo State Government to shut down three secondary schools in Akoko Edo Local Government Area.

The affected schools are Ososo Grammar School, Ososo Comprehensive High School and Makeke Secondary School. Authorities said the decision was taken to prevent any security breach and safeguard students and staff.

The directive was contained in a circular issued by the State Ministry of Education and signed by the Permanent Secretary, Mr Enodolomwanyi Otamere, following security advisories from relevant agencies.

According to the DSS report, operatives intercepted communications between two suspected bandits who allegedly discussed targeting schoolchildren after earlier attempts to kidnap wealthy individuals failed to generate the expected financial returns.

Security concerns deepened after a 25 year old suspect was arrested on June 4 while allegedly carrying out surveillance around Makeke Secondary School, one of the institutions affected by the closure.

The DSS subsequently advised authorities to strengthen security around schools and other educational facilities, particularly in Edo North, while increasing patrols and surveillance in vulnerable communities.

Explaining the government’s action, Otamere said, “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 Akoko Edo Local Government Area.”

He added that all academic and non academic activities in the affected schools had been suspended until further notice to protect lives and property. He, however, assured that candidates writing the ongoing West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) would continue to access their 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,” the permanent secretary stated.

Otamere also directed school principals to ensure the orderly release of students to their parents and guardians, secure school facilities and maintain close communication with security agencies, while urging residents to remain calm as efforts continue to neutralise the threat.