TERRORISM: Edo Government Orders Immediate Closure of Three Schools in Edo North

Blessing Bello, Reporting

BENIN CITY – The Edo State Government has announced the temporary closure of three secondary schools in the northern part of the state, citing a commitment to protecting the lives and property of citizens.

In a press statement released to journalists on Wednesday in Benin City, the Chief Press Secretary to the state government, Patrick Ebojele, confirmed that Ososo Grammar School, Ososo Comprehensive High School and Makeke Secondary School – all located in Edo North – would be shut down with immediate effect.

Governor Monday Okpebholo took the decision “as part of the government’s commitment to safeguarding the lives and property of citizens, particularly students, teachers and school personnel,” Mr Ebojele said.

Consequently, all academic and non-academic activities at the affected schools have been suspended pending further directives from the state government.

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

The government has issued specific instructions to the principals of the three schools, directing them 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 have been advised to remain calm and vigilant, and to 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 added.

No further details were provided on the specific security concerns that prompted the closures. The government said further directives would be issued in due course.