The Senate on Tuesday cautioned Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde against making statements capable of undermining the Federal Government’s efforts to combat terrorism and kidnapping, following his call on the United Nations to investigate the abduction of schoolchildren and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area.
The warning came as the upper chamber commended the Armed Forces, intelligence agencies and other security operatives for the successful rescue of 39 pupils and seven teachers abducted by terrorists in May.
The resolution followed the consideration of a motion sponsored by Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele, who applauded the bravery and professionalism of the security agencies involved in the operation.
Lawmakers also praised President Bola Tinubu for directing security agencies to deploy every available resource to secure the victims’ unconditional release after they were kidnapped on May 15, 2026.
According to the Senate, the rescue operation, which lasted more than 50 days, culminated in the victims regaining their freedom on July 10.
Eight suspected terrorists were arrested during the operation, while several others were killed.
The lawmakers described the mission as evidence of improved coordination, professionalism and operational efficiency among the military, intelligence services and other security agencies.
Despite the successful outcome, the Senate mourned the loss of three security personnel—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 paid the ultimate price during the operation.
It also acknowledged Lance Corporal Adamu Hussain, who sustained injuries in the course of the rescue mission.
The chamber equally expressed sadness over the death of one of the abducted teachers while in captivity but noted that the rescue of the remaining victims had restored public confidence and renewed hope among parents and communities.
Consequently, the Senate urged the Federal Government to ensure the immediate payment of all death benefits, insurance claims, pensions and other entitlements due to the families of the fallen security personnel.
It 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 country’s fight against insecurity.
The lawmakers further urged the Federal Government to intensify military and intelligence operations against terrorists, bandits, kidnappers and other criminal elements through improved logistics, advanced surveillance technology, enhanced intelligence gathering and better welfare packages for security personnel.
The Senate also called on security agencies to sustain efforts aimed at rescuing other Nigerians still being held captive across the country.
The caution directed at Governor Makinde was introduced by Senator Adams Oshiomhole and seconded by Senator Aniekan Bassey, representing Akwa Ibom North-East Senatorial District.
