The Edo State Federal government has actually bought the immediate closure of three secondary schools in Akoko-Edo City government Location following intelligence reports warning of a prepared mass abduction of students by presumed kidnappers.
The impacted schools are Ososo Grade school, Ososo Comprehensive High School, and Makeke Secondary School, according to a circular issued by the Edo State Ministry of Education and signed by the Permanent Secretary, Enodolomwanyi Otamere.
The choice followed a security advisory reportedly issued by the State Security Service (SSS), which alerted of a supposed plot by suspected outlaws to target schools in the Edo North Senatorial District.
According to intelligence reports, security operatives intercepted communications between two suspects who supposedly discussed snatching schoolchildren after previous attempts to kidnap wealthy people failed to produce considerable ransom payments.
The report showed that the suspects thought the abduction of trainees would attract higher government attention and increase the possibility of getting big ransoms and other concessions.
Security concerns intensified after the arrest of a 25-year-old suspect who was apparently conducting monitoring around Makeke Secondary School on June 5. Authorities stated the suspect’s activities raised worries that preparations for the prepared operation were currently underway.
In reaction, the SSS encouraged security agencies to strengthen security around schools and other universities, particularly in Edo North. The agency likewise recommended releasing extra security workers, increasing monitoring operations, and improving collaboration amongst security agencies, regional vigilantes, and hunters.
Describing the federal government’s action, Otamere stated the closure was essential to secure trainees, teachers, and surrounding neighborhoods.
“The Ministry of Education has actually gotten intelligence reports and advisories from pertinent security firms regarding trustworthy dangers to the security of students, personnel, and school communities in some parts of Akoko Edo City Government Area,” he specified.
The long-term secretary revealed the suspension of all scholastic and non-academic activities in the affected schools till more notice.
However, he clarified that candidates sitting for the West African Senior Citizen School Certificate Evaluation (WASSCE) would continue to access their examination centres under rigorous security arrangements.
Otamere likewise directed school principals to make sure the orderly release of students to their parents and guardians, secure school centers, and preserve close interaction with government authorities and security firms.
He further advised locals and moms and dads to remain calm and work together with security firms as efforts continue to neutralise the threat and bring back normal academic activities in the affected neighborhoods.
The closure comes in the middle of growing concerns over insecurity and school abductions in parts of Nigeria, prompting authorities to take preventive measures to protect students and educational institutions.
Source: (NAN)