DSS Uncovers Terror Plot To Kidnap Schoolchildren In Edo, Arrests Suspect Conducting Surveillance Near Secondary School

DSS Uncovers Terror Plot To Kidnap Schoolchildren In Edo, Arrests Suspect Conducting Surveillance Near Secondary School

June 10, 2026

Fresh fears have emerged over the safety of schoolchildren in Edo State after the Department of State Services (DSS) uncovered an alleged plot by terrorists and bandits to carry out a large-scale abduction of students in parts of the state.

According to a classified intelligence memo dated June 5, 2026, which has been circulating among security agencies, the planned attacks are expected to target schools within the Edo North Senatorial District, raising serious concerns among parents, educators, and residents.

The intelligence report revealed that security operatives intercepted communications between two suspected bandits identified as Bawa and Nuhu, during which they allegedly discussed plans to shift their kidnapping operations toward schoolchildren after previous attempts to abduct wealthy individuals reportedly failed.

According to the DSS, the suspects believed that targeting schoolchildren would generate greater public attention, force a swift government response, and potentially attract larger ransom payments.

The memo stated that intelligence gathered by the agency indicated an imminent threat against educational institutions in Edo State, particularly schools located in vulnerable rural communities across Edo North.

"Intelligence at the disposal of the command indicates plans by suspected bandits to kidnap schoolchildren in the state, particularly in Edo North Senatorial District," the document reportedly stated.

Further details in the report identified Bawa as a Fulani man from Zamfara State who, alongside his associate Nuhu, allegedly concluded during their conversations that schoolchildren could serve as more valuable targets for criminal operations because of the pressure such incidents place on authorities and families.

In what appears to be a major breakthrough, the DSS disclosed the arrest of a 25-year-old suspect identified as Emmanuel Momidu. He was reportedly apprehended while conducting surveillance activities around Makeke Secondary School in Makeke Community, Akoko-Edo Local Government Area of Edo State.

Security sources believe the suspect may have been gathering intelligence on the school's security structure, student population, movement patterns, and possible escape routes ahead of a planned attack.

Following the discovery of the plot, the DSS urged immediate preventive measures to protect schools across the state. The agency recommended the deployment of additional security personnel to educational institutions and vulnerable communities, especially within Edo North.

The service also called for stronger collaboration between conventional security agencies and local security structures, including the Edo State Security Corps, vigilante groups, hunters, and community-based intelligence networks.

Authorities were further advised to intensify patrols, surveillance operations, intelligence gathering, and rapid-response mechanisms in areas considered susceptible to attacks.

The development has reignited nationwide concerns over the growing threat posed by criminal gangs and terrorist groups that increasingly target schools for mass abductions.

Over the past several years, educational institutions across Nigeria have become frequent targets for kidnappers seeking huge ransom payments. Hundreds of students have been abducted in coordinated attacks on schools, particularly in northern parts of the country, forcing many institutions to temporarily shut down and leaving communities traumatized.

The latest warning comes only weeks after gunmen reportedly abducted several pupils and teachers from a school in Orire Local Government Area of Oyo State, an incident that sparked widespread outrage and renewed calls for improved security around schools nationwide.

Security analysts warn that any successful attack on schools in Edo State could have devastating consequences, not only for affected families but also for educational activities and public confidence in security institutions.

As authorities move to neutralize the threat, parents, school administrators, and community leaders are being urged to remain vigilant, report suspicious activities, and cooperate with security agencies to prevent any potential attack.

The DSS has assured relevant authorities that intelligence-sharing and proactive security measures are ongoing to ensure that the suspected plot is foiled before it can be executed.

The unfolding situation has once again highlighted the urgent need for stronger protection of schools across Nigeria as criminal groups continue to view educational institutions as lucrative targets for kidnapping operations.