ABUJA, Nigeria (VOICE OF NAIJA)-The Edo State Government has directed schools earlier shut over security concerns to resume academic activities on Monday following a review of the security situation in collaboration with security agencies.
The directive was contained in a circular issued on Thursday by the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Education, Mrs Enodolomwanyi Otamere.
Governor Monday Okpebholo had on Tuesday ordered the temporary closure of Ososo Grammar School, Ososo Comprehensive High School and Makeke Secondary School in Akoko Edo, Edo North, following a security alert from the Department of State Services over a planned attack on schools in the state.
According to the latest circular, the decision to reopen the schools followed a comprehensive security assessment carried out by the state government in conjunction with relevant security agencies and stakeholders.
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The government said enhanced security measures had been put in place, with additional safety mechanisms deployed across affected communities and schools to ensure the protection of learners, teachers and other school personnel.
The circular stated, “The government is satisfied that the necessary arrangements have been put in place to ensure the safety and well-being of learners, teachers and other school personnel and the schools should be re-opened on Monday, June 15.
“Consequently, all public and private schools affected by the earlier closure order have been directed to resume normal academic and administrative activities from June 15.
“School heads, proprietors and education authorities were instructed to make adequate preparations for the safe return of students and staff, while maintaining close collaboration with security agencies, community leaders and government officials to sustain a secure learning environment,” the circular stated.
The government also assured parents, guardians and other stakeholders that adequate security arrangements had been deployed across schools, adding that it would continue to monitor developments to safeguard lives and property within the education sector.
Parents and guardians were urged to ensure that their children and wards return to school promptly to continue academic activities.
VONa had reported that the schools were shut following a Department of State Services alert on a planned mass abduction of students in the state.