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Edo State Government has ordered the immediate closure of three public secondary schools in Akoko-Edo Local Government Area of the state as part of measures aimed at safeguarding the lives and property of students, teachers and other school personnel.
The affected schools are Ososo Grammar School, Ososo; Ososo Comprehensive High School, Ososo; and Makeke Secondary School, Makeke.
The decision, according to the government, was approved by Governor Monday Okpebholo in response to prevailing security concerns in the affected communities.
A statement issued on Wednesday in Benin City by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Dr. Patrick Akhere Ebojele, said the closure would remain in force until further notice.
The government stated that all academic and non-academic activities in the affected schools had been suspended with immediate effect, pending further directives.
However, it clarified that students currently participating in the ongoing West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) would be granted access to their examination centres under strict security arrangements coordinated by school authorities, security agencies and community leaders.
The statement 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 during the closure period, and maintain regular communication with the Edo State Government, the Chief Inspector of Education and relevant security agencies.
The principals were also instructed to comply strictly with any additional directives that may be issued by the government.
The state government 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.
It further assured residents that all necessary measures were being taken to address the situation and restore normal academic activities in the affected schools as soon as conditions permit.
“The Edo State Government remains committed to protecting the lives and well-being of all citizens, particularly students and education workers,” the statement added.
