Tension is mounting in Edo State following the leak of an intelligence report from the Department of State Services (DSS) that warned the state government of a planned mass abduction of schoolchildren in parts of the state. The report has heightened concerns about security amid a wave of kidnappings across Nigeria.
In response to the warning, Governor Monday Okpebholo ordered the immediate closure of all secondary schools in the Akoko-Edo Local Government Area of the state. The directive was contained in a circular dated Tuesday, June 9, and signed by Enodolomwanyi Otamere, the permanent secretary of the Edo Ministry of Education.
The confidential memo from the secret police, dated Friday, June 5, was addressed to the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC). It warned that suspected terrorists are planning to target schools in the state, particularly in the Edo North senatorial district.
According to the memo, intelligence gathered revealed that discussions between two suspected bandits identified as Nuhu and Bawa indicated plans to abduct schoolchildren after they failed in their attempt to kidnap wealthy individuals for financial gain. The document further explained that the suspects believe targeting schoolchildren would attract government attention and increase their chances of securing substantial ransom payments.
The leaked DSS memo has sparked reactions from Nigerians. Obed Obaa criticized the country's systems, stating, "Look at how insecurity is spreading, and yet our agencies are still reactive. We're in a big mess in this country. Please, y'all must stay as safe as you can." Kingsley remarked that such news should not have been made public but rather privately disclosed to security agencies for action. Kev called for immediate government action, saying, "This is an absolute red alert that requires zero delays. The Edo State Government and local security forces must lock down every school baseline immediately. We cannot afford any lapses when it comes to protecting our children." Hustler urged parents to keep their children at home, adding, "It is better to stay with little knowledge than to be kidnapped to an unknown location. May God bring us a lasting solution to this problem."
The situation remains tense as authorities work to prevent any potential attacks.
