Senate Condemns Makinde Over Call for UN Probe Into Oyo School Abduction

The Senate on Tuesday criticised Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde over his call for a United Nations-led investigation into the abduction of pupils and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area, urging him to stop trivialising what it described as a grave national security issue.

The Senate rejected the call, insisting that the matter should not be internationalised. Lawmakers instead commended President Bola Tinubu and the nation’s security agencies for the successful rescue operation.

The Upper Chamber praised the Chief of Defence Staff, the Chief of Army Staff, the Chief of Naval Staff, the Chief of Air Staff, the National Security Adviser, the Inspector-General of Police, the Department of State Services, the National Intelligence Agency and all personnel involved in the operation for their professionalism, courage, patriotism and dedication.

The Senate also congratulated the rescued pupils, teachers and their families on the successful end of their ordeal, while offering prayers for the repose of the teacher who died during the period of captivity.

It further urged the Federal Government to ensure the prompt payment of death benefits, insurance claims, pensions and other welfare entitlements to the families of security personnel who lost their lives during the operation. Lawmakers also called for sustained investment in the welfare, training, equipment and operational capacity of the armed forces and other security agencies.

The motion, sponsored by Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele (APC, Ekiti Central) and co-sponsored by all senators, was expanded after Senator Adams Oshiomhole (APC, Edo North) introduced an additional prayer condemning Makinde’s appeal for a UN probe. The amendment was seconded by Senator Aniekan Bassey (APC, Cross River South).

The Senate paid tribute to Lieutenant F. A. Isaac (N/20349), Private Silas Musa (23NA/84/4604) of the 81 Battalion, Nigerian Army, and Sergeant Abena John Jerome (F/No. 234511) of the Nigeria Police Force, who were killed during the rescue operation.

Lawmakers observed a minute’s silence in honour of the fallen security personnel and extended condolences to their families, the Armed Forces, the Nigeria Police Force and the wider security community.

The Senate also commended Lance Corporal Adamu Hussain (16NA/75/6430) of the 81 Battalion for his bravery during the operation, wished him a speedy recovery and urged the relevant authorities to provide him with the best possible medical care and all his welfare entitlements.

In addition, the Senate called on the Federal Government to sustain and intensify military and intelligence operations against terrorists, kidnappers, bandits and other criminal groups by providing modern equipment, advanced surveillance technology, improved intelligence capabilities, better logistics and enhanced welfare for security personnel.

Lawmakers also urged Nigerians to continue supporting the armed forces and other security agencies through timely intelligence sharing, cooperation and patriotism.