By Paul Joseph
The Senate has cautioned Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde against making statements that could undermine the Federal Government’s efforts to combat terrorism and kidnapping, following his call for the United Nations to investigate the abduction of schoolchildren and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area of the state.
The warning came during Tuesday’s plenary after lawmakers adopted a motion sponsored by Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele to commend the successful rescue of 39 pupils and seven teachers abducted by terrorists, as well as the gallantry of security personnel involved in the operation.
The Senate praised President Bola Tinubu for directing the Armed Forces and other security agencies to deploy every available resource to secure the unconditional release of the victims, who were kidnapped on May 15, 2026.
Lawmakers noted that the rescue operation, which lasted more than 50 days, ended successfully on July 10 with the release of the captives. Eight suspected terrorists were arrested during the mission, while several others were neutralised.
The upper chamber described the operation as evidence of improved professionalism, effective coordination and operational efficiency among the military, intelligence agencies and other security institutions.
Despite celebrating the success, senators observed that the operation came at a heavy cost. They paid tribute to Lieutenant F.A. Isaac of the Nigerian Army, Private Silas Musa of the 81 Battalion, and Sergeant Abena John Jerome of the Nigeria Police Force, who lost their lives during the mission. Lance Corporal Adamu Hussain was also recognised for sustaining injuries in the line of duty.
The Senate further expressed sadness over the death of one of the abducted teachers while in captivity, but described the rescue of the remaining victims as a significant achievement that restored hope to affected families and communities.
As part of its resolutions, the Senate urged the Federal Government to ensure the prompt payment of death benefits, insurance claims, pensions and other entitlements to the families of the fallen security personnel.
Lawmakers also called for sustained investment in the welfare, training, equipment and operational capacity of the Armed Forces, the Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies to strengthen the fight against insecurity.
They further urged the Federal Government to intensify military and intelligence operations against terrorists, kidnappers, bandits and other criminal groups through improved logistics, modern surveillance technology, enhanced intelligence gathering and better welfare packages for security personnel.
The Senate also appealed to security agencies to sustain efforts toward securing the release of other Nigerians still being held captive across the country.
The caution directed at Governor Makinde was introduced by Senator Adams Oshiomhole and supported by Senator Aniekan Bassey during deliberations on the motion.
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