Insecurity: Edo govt shuts three public schools

To forestall any security breach in public schools in Edo State, the state government on Wednesday shut down three public secondary schools in the Akoko-Edo Local Government Area of the state until further notice.

The decision, Nigerian Tribune gathered, may not be unconnected to a leaked memo from the Edo State Command of the Department of State Services (DSS), addressed to the State Commandant of the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), in which the intelligence agency said it uncovered a planned abduction targeting public schools in the Edo North Senatorial District.

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The document also claimed that a communication between two suspects in which the plot was being planned was intercepted, and that an individual had been arrested who was found in one of the public schools in the area apparently on a surveillance mission.

Reacting to the development, a statement endorsed by Dr Patrick Ebojele, Chief Press Secretary to Governor Monday Okpebholo, identified the schools as Ososo Grammar School, Ososo; Ososo Comprehensive High School, Ososo; and Makeke Secondary School, Makeke — all in Akoko-Edo Local Government Area.

“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.

“However, students currently sitting for the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) will be allowed access to their examination centres under strict security arrangements coordinated by school authorities, security agencies, and community leaders.

“Principals of the affected schools are directed 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,” the statement said.

It urged parents, guardians and residents of the affected communities “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,” the statement further assured.