The Edo State Government has ordered the temporary closure of three public secondary schools in Akoko-Edo Local Government Area following security concerns over an alleged threat to students and staff in the area.
The affected institutions are Ososo Grammar School, Ososo Comprehensive High School, and Makeke Secondary School. The directive was contained in a circular dated June 9, 2026, issued by the State Ministry of Education and made available to journalists in Benin City.
According to the ministry, the decision followed a security alert from the State Command of the Department of State Services (DSS), which warned of a possible mass abduction of schoolchildren in the Edo North Senatorial District. The circular was signed by Enodolomwanyi Otamere on behalf of the Permanent Secretary and addressed to the principals of the affected schools.
The ministry stated that intelligence reports and advisories from relevant security agencies pointed to credible threats against students, staff, and school communities in parts of Akoko-Edo. As a result, all academic and non-academic activities in the affected schools have been suspended with immediate effect until further notice.
Despite the closure, candidates currently participating in the ongoing West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) will be allowed to sit for their examinations under strict security arrangements. The ministry said the candidates would be supervised by security agencies and community stakeholders to ensure their safety throughout the examination period.
The government also directed school principals to ensure the safe release of students to their parents and guardians, secure school facilities during the closure, and maintain close communication with education authorities and security agencies. Parents, guardians, and community members were urged to remain calm and cooperate with security operatives as efforts continue to safeguard lives and restore normal academic activities as soon as possible.
Elijah Adeyemi
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