By Opeyemi Adelakun
The Senate has approved a ₦50 million financial support package for the families of five Nigerians who lost their lives during the rescue operation that secured the freedom of abducted pupils and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State.
The donation, announced by Senate President Godswill Akpabio during Wednesday’s plenary, allocates ₦10 million each to the families of two teachers and three security operatives who died in connection with the incident.
The gesture followed the successful rescue of the abducted schoolchildren and their teachers after spending about 56 days in captivity.
Those who lost their lives include military personnel identified as Lt. F.A. Isaac, Sgt. Silas Musa and Pte. Abena John Jerome, as well as two teachers, Michael Oyedokun and John Olaleye.
Addressing lawmakers, Akpabio recalled that the Senate had earlier applauded President Bola Tinubu and the nation’s security agencies for the successful rescue mission while recognising the sacrifices made by personnel involved in the operation.
He noted that the lawmakers considered it necessary to extend support to the bereaved families, describing the donation as a token of appreciation for the sacrifices made in the line of duty.
Akpabio also expressed hope that the government’s commitment to rescuing kidnapped victims would be sustained across all parts of the country wherever Nigerians remain in captivity.
The proposal received unanimous approval through a voice vote, after which the Senate President directed Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele to present the cheques to the beneficiaries on behalf of the upper legislative chamber.
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