Senate Cautions Oyo Governor Over Call for UN Probe Into School Abduction

The Senate has cautioned Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, against making statements that could undermine federal and local counter-terrorism operations following his request for a United Nations-led inquiry into a recent school abduction.

The legislative warning came during a plenary session following a motion sponsored by Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele. The motion focused on the successful rescue of 45 teachers and pupils who spent 56 days in captivity after being abducted by armed bandits from schools in the Oriire Local Government Area on May 15.

While assuming responsibility for the welfare and rehabilitation of the rescued victims, Governor Makinde had argued that an international inquiry was necessary to ensure full accountability rather than to discredit Nigerian security agencies. However, federal lawmakers countered that calling for international intervention diminishes the efforts and sacrifices of local troops.

The upper legislative chamber officially commended the Armed Forces, intelligence agencies, and President Bola Tinubu for their coordinated efforts that led to the unconditional release of the captives on July 10. The successful operation resulted in the rescue of all 45 surviving victims, comprising 39 pupils and six teachers, alongside the neutralisation of several terrorists and the arrest of eight suspects during the mission.

The Senate, however, expressed deep regret over the loss of one teacher who died in captivity, as well as the lives of security personnel who fell during the rescue mission. The deceased officers were identified as Lieutenant F.A. Isaac and Private Silas Musa of the Nigerian Army, alongside Sergeant Abena John Jerome of the Nigeria Police Force.

During the floor debate, prominent lawmakers, including Edo North Senator Adams Oshiomhole and Akwa Ibom North-East Senator Aniekan Bassey, strongly voiced their opposition to externalized investigations, leading to the resolution urging the Oyo State governor to refrain from comments that downplay domestic security milestones.

Concluding the session, the Senate urged the federal government to ensure the immediate payment of statutory death benefits, insurance claims, and pensions to the families of the fallen service members. The legislature also called for sustained momentum against banditry through the provision of advanced surveillance technology, modern combat equipment, and upgraded welfare packages for frontline personnel across the country.