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The Edo State Government has ordered the immediate closure of three secondary schools in the Akoko-Edo Local Government Area due to credible intelligence reports of a planned mass abduction targeting students.
The affected schools are Ososo Grammar School, Ososo Comprehensive High School, and Makeke Secondary School.
The contents were outlined in a formal circular issued by the State Ministry of Education, dated June 9, 2026, and released to newsmen in Benin City.
The official announcement explained that schools were shut down due to a security alert from the State Command of the Department of State Services (DSS) regarding a suspected plot to mass kidnap students in the Edo North senatorial district.
On behalf of the ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Enodolomwanyi Otamere signed and addressed the statement to the principals of the affected schools.
The ministry, however, directed that candidates currently participating in the ongoing West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) should be allowed access to sit for their examinations under strict security arrangements.
It said the candidates should be supervised as may be provided by the relevant security agencies and community stakeholders.
According to the statement, 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.
Consequently, and in line with the Government’s commitment to the protection of lives and property, approval has been granted for the temporary closure of the affected schools with immediate effect.
“All academic and non-academic activities in the affected schools are hereby suspended with immediate effect and shall remain so until further notice from the Ministry.”
It added, “However, 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 ministry also directed the affected principals of the schools to ensure the safe and orderly release of students to their parents and guardians.
It further ordered the principals to secure all school facilities and property during the period of closure, as well as maintain close communication with the Ministry, the Chief Inspector of Education, and security agencies.
It urged the principals to comply strictly with any further directives that may be issued by the State Government.
The State Government, however, advised parents, guardians, and members of the affected communities to remain calm and cooperate fully with security agencies.
It added that efforts are being intensified to guarantee the safety of all citizens and restore normal academic activities as soon as practicable.
