The Edo State government on Wednesday announced the closure of three public secondary schools in the Edo North senatorial district of the state till further notice due to security concerns.
Newsmata.com.ng reports that this decision may not be unconnected to a leaked memo from the state’s Department of State Services (DSS) to the state Commandant of the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in which the secret police said it uncovered planned abduction in public schools in Edo North Senatorial District.
The document also claimed that a communication between two suspects where the plot was being planned was intercepted and that an individual who was found in one of the public schools in the area apparently on a surveillance mission, had been arrested.
A statement by Patrick Ebojele, chief press secretary to Governor Monday Okpebholo, named the schools as Ososo Grammar School, Ososo; Ososo Comprehensive High School, Ososo; and Makeke Secondary School, Makeke, all in Akoko-Edo local government area.
Akoko-Edo local government area had been the hub of kidnapping in the senatorial district with abductions becoming frequent occurrences.
The government, in its statement, explained that “This decision has been taken by Governor Monday Okpebholo as part of the government’s commitment to safeguarding the lives and property of citizens, particularly students, teachers, and school personnel.
“Consequently, all academic and non-academic activities in the affected schools are suspended with immediate effect, pending further directives from the government”.
The statement however took cognizance of students currently sitting for the West African Senior School Certificate Examination, (WASSCE) stating that they “will be allowed access to their examination centres under strict security arrangements coordinated by school authorities, security agencies, and community leaders.”
The government directed principals of the affected schools to “Ensure the safe and orderly release of students to their parents and guardians. Secure all school facilities, equipment, and property throughout the closure period. Maintain regular communication with the Edo State Government, the Chief Inspector of Education, and relevant security agencies. Strictly comply with any additional directives issued by the government.”
Parents, guardians, and residents of the affected communities were urged “to remain calm, vigilant, and cooperate fully with security agencies as efforts are intensified to maintain peace and ensure public safety.
“The Edo State Government assures the public that all necessary measures are being taken to address the situation and restore normal academic activities as soon as conditions permit.”
