The State Security Service (SSS) has uncovered an alleged plot by suspected terrorists to carry out a mass abduction of schoolchildren in Edo State.
According to an intelligence memo dated June 5, 2026, the planned attack is expected to target schools in the Edo North Senatorial District.
The security alert followed an intercepted conversation between two suspects identified as Bawa and Nuhu. Security operatives believe the suspects are linked to criminal groups operating in parts of northern Nigeria.
According to the memo, intelligence gathered by the agency indicates that bandits are planning to shift their focus to schools after previous attempts to kidnap wealthy individuals failed.
The SSS stated that the suspects allegedly concluded that abducting schoolchildren would attract greater government attention and increase the chances of receiving large ransom payments and other concessions.
The intelligence report also revealed that a 25-year-old man identified as Emmanuel Momidu was arrested while allegedly conducting surveillance around Makeke Secondary School in Makeke Community, Akoko Edo Local Government Area.
Security officials believe the suspect may have been gathering information that could assist the planned operation.
Following the development, the SSS has advised authorities to strengthen security measures around schools across Edo State, especially in the Edo North Senatorial District.
The agency recommended the immediate deployment of additional security personnel to vulnerable schools and communities.
It also called for stronger collaboration between security agencies, the Edo State Security Corps, local vigilante groups, and hunters to improve intelligence gathering and rapid response capabilities.
Furthermore, the SSS urged security operatives to intensify patrols and surveillance activities in areas considered vulnerable to attacks.
The warning comes amid growing concerns over the safety of schools across Nigeria following a series of school abductions in different parts of the country.
Recent attacks targeting pupils and teachers have renewed calls for stronger security measures to protect educational institutions and prevent further disruptions to learning.
Authorities are yet to announce any specific arrests linked directly to the alleged plot, but security agencies say efforts are ongoing to prevent any attack and ensure the safety of students, teachers, and school communities across Edo State.
The latest intelligence alert has heightened concerns among parents, educators, and community leaders, who continue to call for proactive measures to safeguard schools and protect children from criminal activities.
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