The Senate on Tuesday condemned the abduction of schoolchildren and teachers in Oyo State, describing the incident as a national tragedy and a deep assault on Nigeria’s collective humanity.
President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, made the remarks while addressing lawmakers at the resumption of plenary in Abuja.
He said the country had been shaken by the incident, stressing that the abduction of innocent pupils and teachers represents an attack on the nation’s conscience and future.
“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,” Akpabio said.
He lamented the persistent insecurity affecting schools and communities across the country, warning that continued attacks threaten Nigeria’s educational system and national stability.
The Senate President also paid tribute to victims of the attack, including individuals who lost their lives during the incident, and led lawmakers in a minute’s silence in their honour.
“Their loss is our loss. Their sorrow is our sorrow. Their pain is our pain,” he added.
Akpabio expressed optimism that security agencies would secure the release of those still in captivity, while urging coordinated efforts to address the rising wave of kidnappings.
He directed Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele to schedule a national security summit aimed at finding solutions to the country’s worsening insecurity.
The Senate’s response follows increasing concerns over mass abductions in parts of the country, including the May 15 attack in Oyo State where dozens of pupils and teachers were reportedly kidnapped.
The incident sparked public outrage, protests, and industrial action by teachers in the state, further intensifying calls for stronger security measures.
Akpabio also addressed political developments ahead of the 2027 general elections, acknowledging concerns among lawmakers affected by recent party primaries.
He assured senators that the leadership of the chamber was engaging stakeholders to manage tensions arising from the primaries’ outcomes.
The Senate’s actions reflect growing legislative pressure on the Federal Government to strengthen security operations and protect vulnerable communities, particularly schools.
