The Senate has cautioned Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, against making statements that could undermine the efforts of the Federal Government and security agencies following his call for a United Nations-led investigation into the abduction of pupils and teachers in the state.
Makinde had, on Monday, while formally taking responsibility for the welfare, rehabilitation and education of the 45 rescued victims, called for a full investigation into the circumstances surrounding their 56-day captivity.
The governor said the request for international involvement was not aimed at discrediting Nigerian institutions but was intended to promote transparency and accountability.
The victims, comprising 39 pupils and six teachers, were abducted on May 15, 2026, when armed attackers invaded three schools in Yawota and Ahoro Esienle communities in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State.
However, during Tuesday’s plenary, the Senate advised the governor to be mindful of comments that could affect ongoing efforts by security agencies in tackling terrorism and kidnapping.
The warning followed the consideration of a motion sponsored by Senate Leader, Opeyemi Bamidele, on the successful rescue of the victims and the sacrifices made by security personnel involved in the operation.
The Senate commended the Armed Forces, intelligence agencies and other security organisations for rescuing the victims after more than 50 days in captivity.
Lawmakers also praised President Bola Tinubu for directing security agencies to deploy necessary resources to secure the victims’ release.
According to the Senate, the operation, which ended with the victims’ release on July 10, resulted in the arrest of eight suspected terrorists, while several others were neutralised.
The chamber described the rescue mission as evidence of improved professionalism, coordination and operational efficiency among security agencies.
The Senate also mourned security personnel who lost their lives during the operation, identifying them as Lieutenant F.A. Isaac and Private Silas Musa of the Nigerian Army, as well as Sergeant Abena John Jerome of the Nigeria Police Force.
It also acknowledged Lance Corporal Adamu Hussain, who sustained injuries during the mission.
The lawmakers 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 had restored hope among Nigerians.
The Senate urged the Federal Government to provide immediate support, including death benefits, insurance claims, pensions and other entitlements, to families of fallen security personnel.
It further called for improved welfare, training, equipment and operational capacity for security agencies, while urging sustained military and intelligence operations against terrorists, kidnappers and other criminal groups.
During debate on the motion, former Edo State Governor and Edo North Senator, Adams Oshiomhole, criticised Makinde’s call for a UN investigation, a position supported by Senator Aniekan Bassey of Akwa Ibom North-East.
In its final resolution, the Senate urged the Oyo governor to avoid remarks capable of weakening public confidence in the efforts of the Federal Government and security agencies in addressing insecurity.
