Department of State Services (DSS) has alerted security agencies in Edo State to an alleged plot by suspected bandits to abduct schoolchildren in parts of the state.
According to a classified memo dated June 5, 2026, intelligence reports indicated that the suspects were planning attacks on schools, especially in Edo North Senatorial District.
The memo, signed by B. Agada on behalf of the State Director, said the information came from an intercepted conversation between two suspected bandits identified as Bawa and Nchu.
The DSS stated that Bawa was said to be of Fulani extraction from Zamfara State.
During the conversation, the suspects allegedly claimed that previous attempts to kidnap wealthy individuals did not produce the financial gains they expected.
The memo said they allegedly agreed that abducting schoolchildren would attract greater government attention and increase their chances of receiving large ransom payments.
The DSS also disclosed that a 25-year-old suspect, Immanuel Momidu, was arrested on June 4 while allegedly carrying out surveillance around Makeke Secondary School in Akoko-Edo Local Government Area.
According to the advisory, the suspects are believed to be finalising plans to target schools and other vulnerable communities within Edo North.
The Service recommended tighter security around schools and called for the deployment of security personnel in collaboration with local vigilantes, hunters and the Edo State Security Corps.
The warning has renewed concerns over the safety of schools and other soft targets amid continuing kidnapping threats across several parts of Nigeria.
