By Israel Adebiyi 

The Edo State Government has ordered the immediate closure of three secondary schools in Akoko Edo Local Government Area as part of measures to safeguard students, teachers, and other school personnel amid security concerns in the area.

The affected schools are Ososo Grammar School, Ososo; Ososo Comprehensive High School, Ososo; and Makeke Secondary School, Makeke.

The directive, announced in a statement issued on Wednesday by the Chief Press Secretary to Governor Monday Okpebholo, Dr. Patrick Akhere Ebojele, said the closure would remain in effect until further notice.

According to the statement, the decision was approved by Governor Monday Okpebholo as part of the government's commitment to protecting lives and property, particularly within the education sector.

The government directed that all academic and non-academic activities in the affected schools be suspended immediately pending further directives.

However, candidates currently participating in the West African Senior School Certificate Examination will be granted access to their examination centres under strict security arrangements involving school authorities, security agencies, and community leaders.

The government also instructed principals of the affected schools to ensure the safe and orderly release of students to their parents and guardians, secure school facilities and property throughout the closure period, and maintain regular communication with the relevant education and security authorities.

The statement urged parents, guardians, and residents of the affected communities to remain calm, vigilant, and cooperate with security agencies as efforts continue to maintain peace and ensure public safety.

The Edo State Government assured residents that all necessary steps were being taken to address the situation and restore normal academic activities in the affected schools as soon as conditions permit.