Edo Reopens Schools Closed Over Kidnap Threats, Assures Parents of Improved Security
The Edo State Government has approved the reopening of schools in Akoko-Edo Local Government Area that were temporarily shut following security threats linked to planned attacks and possible abductions.
The approval was conveyed in a circular signed by the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Education, Mr Enodolomwanyi Otamere, and obtained in Benin on Friday.
According to the government, the decision followed a comprehensive security review carried out by relevant agencies and key stakeholders, which concluded that conditions had improved significantly for academic activities to resume.
Otamere stated that enhanced security measures and additional safety mechanisms had been deployed across affected communities and schools to protect students, teachers and other personnel.
He announced that all public and private schools affected by the earlier closure directive would resume normal academic and administrative activities from Monday, June 15, 2026.
“Following the implementation of strengthened security arrangements and additional protective measures across the affected communities and schools, government is satisfied that adequate provisions have been made to guarantee the safety and wellbeing of learners, teachers and other school personnel,” the circular stated.
School administrators, proprietors and education authorities were directed to make necessary preparations for the safe return of students and staff.
The government also urged school authorities to sustain close collaboration with security agencies, community leaders and relevant government institutions to maintain a secure and conducive learning environment.
Parents and guardians were reassured that adequate security personnel and monitoring mechanisms had been put in place across the affected schools.
Otamere reiterated the state government’s commitment to safeguarding lives and property, noting that authorities would continue to monitor developments and respond promptly to emerging security concerns.
He encouraged parents to ensure their children return to school without delay to continue their academic programmes.
The affected schools include Ososo Grammar School, Ososo Comprehensive High School and Makeke Secondary School, which were temporarily closed after intelligence reports warned of possible attacks.
The closure followed security alerts, including a memo reportedly issued by the Department of State Services (DSS), indicating an alleged plot by suspected bandits to abduct students in parts of Edo North Senatorial District.
According to intelligence reports, security operatives intercepted communications suggesting planned attacks on schools, while a suspect was reportedly arrested during surveillance operations near Makeke Secondary School.
During the closure period, candidates sitting for the ongoing West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) continued their examinations under special security arrangements.
With the latest directive, normal academic activities are expected to fully resume as government maintains that the security situation is now under control.
