The Senate has cautioned Oyo State Governor, Engr. Seyi Makinde, over his call for a United Nations-led investigation into the abduction of pupils and teachers in the state, warning against statements that could undermine ongoing security efforts.
While assuming responsibility for the welfare, rehabilitation and education of the 45 rescued victims on Monday, Makinde said that Nigerians deserved a full account of the circumstances surrounding the abduction.
He explained that his call for international scrutiny was intended to ensure accountability and not to discredit Nigerian institutions.
The victims were abducted on 15 May 2026 when armed bandits attacked three schools in the Yawota and Ahoro Esienle communities of Oriire Local Government Area of the state, kidnapping 39 pupils and six teachers.
During plenary on Tuesday, the Senate considered a motion sponsored by Senate Leader, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, on the successful rescue of the victims and the sacrifices made by security personnel involved in the operation.
Following deliberations, the Red Chamber commended the Armed Forces, intelligence agencies and other security institutions for securing the release of the victims after more than 50 days in captivity.
Lawmakers also praised President Bola Tinubu for directing security agencies to deploy all necessary resources to ensure the unconditional release of the abducted teachers and pupils.
According to the Senate, the rescue operation, which culminated in the victims’ release on 10 July 2026, also led to the arrest of eight suspected terrorists, while several others were neutralised.
The lawmakers noted that the operation demonstrated growing professionalism, operational efficiency and inter-agency collaboration among the security agencies.
The Senate, however, mourned the security personnel who lost their lives during the mission.
The deceased were identified as Lieutenant F.A. Isaac of the Nigerian Army, Private Silas Musa of the 81 Battalion of the Nigerian Army and Sergeant Abena John Jerome of the Nigeria Police Force. The Senate also recognised Lance Corporal Adamu Hussain, who sustained injuries during the operation.
The upper chamber further expressed sadness over the death of one of the abducted teachers in captivity but described the successful rescue of the remaining victims as a significant achievement that had restored hope among Nigerians.
Lawmakers urged the Federal Government to ensure the prompt payment of death benefits, insurance claims, pensions and other entitlements due to the families of the fallen officers.
The Senate also called for improved welfare, training, equipment and operational capacity for members of the Armed Forces, the Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies.
In addition, it urged the Federal Government to intensify military and intelligence operations against terrorists, kidnappers and other criminal groups through the provision of modern equipment, advanced surveillance technology, improved logistics and enhanced welfare packages.
The lawmakers further called on security agencies to redouble efforts to secure the release of other Nigerians still being held captive across the country.
During the debate, Senator Adams Oshiomhole, representing Edo North Senatorial District, cautioned Governor Makinde over his call for a United Nations investigation into the abduction. His position was supported by Senator Aniekan Bassey of Akwa Ibom North-East.
In its final resolution, the Senate urged the Oyo State governor to avoid statements capable of undermining the efforts of the Federal Government and security agencies in combating insecurity in the country.
