Edino Chubiyo Cornelius 
BENIN CITY, Nigeria – The Edo State Government has ordered the immediate closure of three secondary schools in Akoko-Edo Local Government Area following intelligence reports of a possible kidnap plot targeting students.
The precautionary measure comes after security agencies raised concerns about threats to schools in Edo North Senatorial District, prompting authorities to suspend academic activities pending further security assessments.
The affected institutions are Ososo Grammar School, Ososo Comprehensive High School and Makeke Secondary School.
The directive was contained in a circular issued by the Ministry of Education and signed by Permanent Secretary Enodolomwanyi Otamere.
According to the government, the decision followed security intelligence indicating that suspected criminal elements may be planning attacks on schools within the district.
Security sources said intercepted conversations between suspects suggested a possible shift in focus towards schoolchildren after earlier attempts to kidnap wealthy individuals reportedly failed.
Authorities further disclosed that a 25-year-old suspect was arrested on June 4 while allegedly monitoring activities around Makeke Secondary School.
The development heightened fears that preparations for a possible abduction operation may already have begun.
Following the intelligence reports, security agencies recommended enhanced protection around schools, public institutions and vulnerable communities.
Measures proposed include increased patrols, deployment of additional security personnel and stronger collaboration between security agencies, local vigilantes and hunters.
In announcing the closure, the Ministry of Education said all academic and non-academic activities in the affected schools would remain suspended until further notice.
However, students currently sitting for the ongoing West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) will be allowed to continue writing their examinations under strict security arrangements.
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Oluwafunbi Bello 