The Senate has criticised Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde’s call for a United Nations-led investigation into the recent abduction of pupils and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area, describing the proposal as unnecessary and urging the governor not to trivialise a matter it considers deeply sensitive. The development followed Makinde’s appeal for an independent international review after the Nigerian military rescued the victims, who spent 56 days in captivity, and formally handed them over to the Oyo State Government.
Governor Makinde had argued that the circumstances surrounding the abduction deserved scrutiny beyond Nigeria’s domestic institutions, calling on the United Nations and international human rights bodies to investigate the incident.
However, during Tuesday’s plenary, the Senate rejected the proposal, with lawmakers insisting that the focus should remain on recognising the sacrifices of security personnel involved in the rescue operation rather than seeking external intervention. The additional resolution opposing the governor’s request was moved by Senator Adams Oshiomhole (APC, Edo North) and seconded by Senator Aniekan Bassey (APC, Cross River South).
The resolutions followed a motion sponsored by Senate Leader Senator Opeyemi Bamidele and co-sponsored by all senators, titled:
“Commendation of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Nigerian Armed Forces and other security agencies for the successful rescue of abducted schoolchildren and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State.”
The Senate praised the efforts of President Bola Tinubu, 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 (DSS), the National Intelligence Agency (NIA), and all officers who participated in the rescue mission. Lawmakers described the operation as a demonstration of professionalism, patriotism and courage
The Senate paid tribute to security operatives who lost their lives during the rescue mission, observing a minute’s silence in their honour. Those recognised include: Lieutenant F. A. Isaac, Private Silas Musa of the Nigerian Army’s 81 Battalion, Sergeant Abena John Jerome of the Nigeria Police Force
The Upper Chamber extended condolences to their families, the Armed Forces, the Nigeria Police Force and the wider security community, praying for the peaceful repose of the deceased. Lawmakers also commended Lance Corporal Adamu Hussain for his bravery during the operation, wishing him a speedy recovery while urging authorities to provide him with the best medical care and all due welfare benefits.
The Senate urged the Federal Government to intensify military and intelligence operations against kidnappers, terrorists, bandits and other criminal groups across the country.
It called for increased investment in modern weapons, surveillance technology, intelligence gathering, logistics and improved welfare for personnel serving in the nation’s security agencies. Lawmakers also appealed to Nigerians to continue supporting security agencies by providing timely intelligence, cooperating with law enforcement and demonstrating patriotism.
In addition, the Senate urged the Federal Government to ensure the prompt payment of death benefits, insurance claims, pensions and other statutory entitlements owed to the families of security personnel who died during the operation.
The chamber congratulated the rescued pupils, teachers and their families on the successful end of their traumatic ordeal while offering prayers for the teacher who lost his life during the period of captivity. The Senate maintained that strengthening security institutions and supporting those who serve remain critical to ensuring Nigerians can live, work and pursue education without fear.
