Senate Rejects Makinde’s UN Probe Call, Commends Security Forces After 56-Day Oyo School Abduction Rescue

Lawmakers hail military operation that freed pupils and teachers, honour fallen officers, and demand stronger action against remaining kidnappings

The Nigerian Senate has rejected Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde’s call for a United Nations-led investigation into the abduction of schoolchildren and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area, describing the move as unnecessary and a distraction from the successful rescue operation carried out by Nigeria’s security agencies.

The Senate’s position followed the adoption of a motion on Tuesday commending President Bola Tinubu, the Nigerian Armed Forces and other security agencies for the safe rescue of the abducted pupils and their teachers after 56 days in captivity.

The motion, sponsored by Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele (APC, Ekiti Central) and supported by all senators, praised the bravery, professionalism and sacrifice of security personnel involved in the operation, including those who lost their lives while ensuring the victims regained their freedom.

The Senate also called on the Federal Government to sustain military and intelligence operations against terrorists, kidnappers, bandits and other criminal elements threatening national security.

Senate Challenges Makinde’s Demand

The controversy over an international investigation arose after Governor Makinde, in a statewide broadcast following the handover of the rescued pupils and teachers to the Oyo State Government, urged the United Nations and other international human rights bodies to examine the circumstances surrounding the abduction.

The governor argued that the incident raised questions requiring independent review beyond Nigeria’s internal institutions.

However, the Senate disagreed with the position.

Senator Adams Oshiomhole (APC, Edo North) introduced an additional prayer urging the governor to withdraw his demand for a United Nations investigation, arguing that the rescue operation demonstrated the capability and commitment of Nigeria’s security institutions.

The proposal was seconded by Senator Aniekan Bassey (APC, Cross River South) and subsequently adopted by the Senate.

Lawmakers Praise Security Agencies

While rejecting the call for external investigation, senators overwhelmingly praised the security agencies involved in the rescue mission.

The Senate specifically commended the Chief of Defence Staff, Chief of Army Staff, Chief of Naval Staff, Chief of Air Staff, National Security Adviser, Inspector-General of Police, Department of State Services, National Intelligence Agency and all personnel who participated in the operation.

The lawmakers described their efforts as a demonstration of professionalism, patriotism and commitment to protecting Nigerians.

Senator Victor Umeh (LP, Anambra Central) said the successful rescue had renewed public confidence in the nation’s security architecture.

“What we thought was insurmountable is now surmountable. I am very happy with this operation,” he said.

Calls for More Rescue Operations

Despite celebrating the successful mission, senators warned that many Nigerians, including children, remain in captivity across the country.

Senator Adamu Aliero (PDP, Kebbi Central) urged security agencies to intensify efforts to rescue other abducted schoolchildren, particularly those still being held in Borno State.

Similarly, Senator Tahir Monguno (APC, Borno North) appealed to the military to replicate the same urgency shown in the Oyo operation in other kidnapping cases.

“There are children still in captivity. I urge the military to show the same urgency so that they can be free from captivity,” he said.

Senator Abdul Ningi (PDP, Bauchi Central) also urged the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, to maintain the inter-agency cooperation that contributed to the success of the rescue operation and apply the same strategy to other security challenges.

Senate Honours Fallen Heroes

The Senate paid tribute to security personnel who died during the operation, observing a minute’s silence in honour of Lieutenant F.A. Isaac, Private Silas Musa and Sergeant Abena John Jerome.

The lawmakers described them as heroes who made the ultimate sacrifice in defence of the nation and the protection of innocent citizens.

The Senate also called for immediate payment of death benefits, insurance claims, pensions and other entitlements to the families of the fallen officers.

Lance Corporal Adamu Hussain, who sustained injuries during the operation, was also recognised for his bravery, with the Senate urging authorities to provide him with adequate medical care and welfare support.

Sustaining the Fight Against Insecurity

The Senate urged Nigerians to support security agencies through timely intelligence sharing, cooperation and patriotism.

It further called on the Federal Government to strengthen security operations by providing modern equipment, advanced surveillance technology, improved intelligence capabilities, better logistics and enhanced welfare packages for personnel.

The lawmakers said the successful rescue of the Oyo pupils and teachers should serve as a turning point in the fight against kidnapping, while urging continued action to ensure that every Nigerian can live, work and pursue education without fear.