The Senate on Tuesday expressed deep concern over the abduction of schoolchildren and teachers in Oyo State, describing the incident as a painful reminder of the country’s security challenges and a direct attack on the nation’s shared values.
Lawmakers observed a minute of silence for two teachers and a pupil who lost their lives in connection with the incident. The tribute was led by Senate President Godswill Akpabio as the upper chamber resumed plenary following the Sallah recess.
Speaking at the session, Akpabio said the incident had plunged the country into mourning and highlighted the urgent need to improve the safety of schools and surrounding communities.
“We resume our work under the mournful shadow of a tragedy that has shaken our nation. The abduction of schoolchildren and teachers in Oyo State is not merely an attack on innocent citizens; it is an assault on our collective humanity,” he said.
The Senate President noted that the attack carries far-reaching implications because it affects children and educators, who play critical roles in shaping the nation’s future.
“We mourn because if we cannot protect our children, we imperil our future. We mourn because a nation that cannot guarantee the safety of its teachers weakens the very foundations upon which education rests. And we mourn because, for as long as those children remain in captivity, our nation remains captive with them.”
Akpabio paid tribute to Michael Oyedokun, who reportedly died while in captivity, and Adesiyan Adegboye, who was killed during the attack. He also remembered the pupil who lost his life in the incident.
“Today, we grieve the loss of two dedicated educators: Michael Oyedokun, who died in captivity, and Adesiyan Adegboye, who lost his life during the attack. We also mourn the child whose life was cut short before its promise could be fulfilled.
“We share the pain of the bereaved families. Their loss is our loss. Their sorrow is our sorrow. Their pain is our pain,” he said.
Despite the tragedy, Akpabio expressed confidence that ongoing rescue efforts would lead to the safe return of those still being held by their captors.
“Yet even in the midst of grief, we remain hopeful that, through the determined efforts of the government and our security agencies, those still in captivity will be safely rescued and reunited with their loved ones,” he added.
On behalf of the Senate, he extended condolences to the families of the victims, the affected school community, and the government and people of Oyo State before requesting senators to honour the deceased with a minute of silence.
Akpabio also cautioned political actors against turning the tragedy into a tool for political gain, stressing that insecurity remains a national challenge that affects all Nigerians regardless of affiliation.
“At moments such as these, there is a temptation to divide, accuse, and seek advantage from tragedy. Politicians and aspirants must resist that temptation for such cheap publicity.
“Those who kidnap our children, terrorise communities, and murder innocent citizens do not distinguish between party, faith, or ethnicity. Their assault is directed against Nigeria itself,” he said.
He urged lawmakers and citizens to continue supporting lawful measures aimed at improving security, protecting schools, and ensuring that those responsible for violent crimes are brought to justice.
“Therefore, our response must be equal to the challenge. We must stand united, firm, and resolute. Let us continue to support every lawful and necessary measure to strengthen security, protect schools, safeguard communities, and ensure that every bandit faces the full weight of justice,” Akpabio said.