The Edo State Government has ordered the temporary closure of three public secondary schools in Akoko-Edo Local Government Area following security concerns over a possible mass abduction of students.
The affected schools are Ososo Grammar School, Ososo Comprehensive High School, and Makeke Secondary School.
The closure was announced in a circular dated June 9, 2026, issued by the Edo State Ministry of Education and made available to journalists in Benin City.
According to the ministry, the decision followed a security alert raised by the Department of State Services over an alleged threat of mass abduction targeting schoolchildren in Edo North Senatorial District.
The circular, signed by Enodolomwanyi Otamere on behalf of the Permanent Secretary, was addressed to the principals of the affected schools.
The ministry stated that all academic and non-academic activities in the schools have been suspended indefinitely as part of efforts to safeguard students, staff, and surrounding communities.
“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,” the statement said.
Despite the shutdown, the government directed that students currently writing the ongoing West African Examinations Council examinations should still be allowed to sit for their papers under strict security arrangements.
The ministry added that security agencies and community stakeholders would supervise the candidates during the examinations to ensure their safety.
School principals were also instructed to ensure the orderly release of students to their parents and guardians, secure school property during the closure period, and maintain communication with education authorities and security agencies.
The state government appealed to parents and residents of the affected communities to remain calm and cooperate with security operatives, assuring them that efforts are ongoing to restore normal academic activities as soon as possible.
