DSS warns of planned schoolchildren kidnap in Edo
The Department of State Services (DSS) has raised an alarm over an alleged plan by suspected bandits to abduct schoolchildren in Edo State, particularly in the Edo North Senatorial District.
The warning was contained in a security advisory dated June 5, 2026, addressed to the Edo State Command of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC).
According to the DSS, intelligence reports indicate that suspected bandits are considering targeting schoolchildren after previous attempts to kidnap wealthy individuals failed to yield the expected financial rewards.
The agency disclosed that the intelligence was obtained from an intercepted conversation between two suspected bandits identified as Bawa and Nuhu. During the exchange, the suspects allegedly discussed abducting schoolchildren, believing such an operation would attract greater government attention and increase the chances of receiving substantial ransom payments.
The DSS also revealed that a suspect, Emmanuel Momidu, was arrested on June 4 while allegedly conducting surveillance around a secondary school in Akoko-Edo Local Government Area.
In response to the threat, the security agency urged relevant authorities to strengthen security measures around schools and other educational institutions across the state, with particular attention to vulnerable communities in Edo North.
The DSS recommended the deployment of security personnel to at-risk schools, increased patrols, and closer collaboration with local vigilante groups, hunters, and other security stakeholders to improve surveillance and prevent potential attacks.
The alert comes amid growing concerns over attacks on schools in different parts of the country. In recent weeks, several students and teachers have been abducted in separate incidents in Oyo and Borno states, fuelling fears over the safety of educational institutions.
Following the security warning, the Edo State Government reportedly ordered the temporary closure of three secondary schools in Akoko-Edo Local Government Area as a precautionary measure. However, candidates sitting for the ongoing West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) have been allowed to continue their examinations under enhanced security arrangements.
