Edo Shuts 3 Akoko-Edo Schools Over Kidnap Threat Intelligence, Tight Security Deployed for WASSCE

The Edo State Government has ordered the immediate closure of three secondary schools in Akoko-Edo Local Government Area following intelligence reports indicating a potential kidnapping threat targeting students in the area.

The affected schools are Ososo Grammar School, Ososo Comprehensive High School, and Makeke Secondary School, all located within the Ososo–Makeke corridor of Akoko-Edo LGA.

The directive, issued as a precautionary security measure, follows a reported intelligence alert from the Department of State Services (DSS) dated June 5, 2026. The report allegedly warned of planned mass abductions involving suspected criminal elements operating within parts of the region.

Security sources say the alert was based on intercepted communications and ongoing surveillance of individuals suspected to be involved in kidnapping activities. Some names were reportedly mentioned in connection with the intelligence, though authorities have not publicly confirmed full details.

Despite the seriousness of the alert, no attack or abduction has been recorded at any of the affected schools. Officials emphasized that the shutdown is strictly preventive, aimed at protecting students and staff from possible security risks.

Meanwhile, candidates sitting for the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) in the area are continuing their examinations under heightened security arrangements. Security personnel have been deployed around examination centres to ensure safety and prevent disruption.

The development has sparked concern among residents of Akoko-Edo, a region that has experienced intermittent insecurity challenges in recent years, including kidnapping incidents along rural roads and vulnerable communities.

While residents await an official comprehensive briefing from the Edo State Government, the situation has already generated widespread reactions across social media, with renewed calls for stronger security presence in school environments and rural settlements.

Authorities have urged residents to remain calm and vigilant, advising them to report any suspicious movement or activity to security agencies as monitoring continues across the affected axis.

Further updates are expected as the state government and security agencies provide additional clarification on the intelligence that prompted the precautionary closure.