DSS Uncovers Plot By Bandits To Abduct Schoolchildren In Edo North

The Department of State Services (DSS) has raised an alarm over an alleged plot by suspected bandits to carry out a mass abduction of schoolchildren in parts of Edo State, particularly within the Edo North Senatorial District.

This was contained in a memo dated June 5, 2026, and addressed to the State Commandant of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Benin City.

The document, referenced S.66/A/3972, alleged that intelligence gathered by security operatives indicated that suspected bandits were planning coordinated attacks on schools in the area.

According to the memo, the intelligence followed an intercepted conversation between two suspected bandits identified as Bawa and Nuhu, both said to be from Zamfara State.

“Intelligence at the disposal of the Command indicate plans by suspected bandits to kidnap school children in the State, particularly in Edo North Senatorial District,’’ the document stated.

The DSS further disclosed that the suspects allegedly decided to target schoolchildren after previous attempts to kidnap wealthy individuals failed to generate the expected financial returns.

“During the conversation, the duo disclosed their plans to kidnap school children in Edo North Senatorial District, as previous attempts to kidnap wealthy individuals had not yielded the expected financial gains,” the memo said.

The document added that the suspects believed abducting schoolchildren would attract greater government attention and increase the likelihood of securing substantial ransom payments and concessions.

“To this end, they concluded that abducting school children would attract greater government attention and potentially increase the likelihood of huge ransom payments and concessions,” it added.

The intelligence report also revealed that a 25-year-old suspect, identified as Emmanuel Momidu, had already been apprehended while allegedly conducting surveillance around a secondary school in Akoko-Edo Local Government Area.

“Already, on 4th June, 2026, one Emmanuel MOMIDU (25yrs) was apprehended while he was perceived to be surveilling Makeke Secondary School at Makeke Community, Akoko Edo LGA,” the memo stated.

In its recommendations, the DSS urged security agencies to immediately strengthen protective measures around schools across the state, with particular focus on vulnerable communities in Edo North.

“It is advised that counter-measures be emplaced around schools in the State with focus on Edo North Senatorial District, to strengthen security around schools and other educational institutions,” the document said.

The agency further recommended the deployment of security personnel to vulnerable schools and communities, enhanced collaboration with local vigilante groups and hunters, as well as intensified patrols to improve surveillance and deter potential attacks.

The warning comes amid concerns over recent school abductions in Oyo and Borno states.