Ell Obaje
The Senate on Tuesday gave a unanimous vote of commendation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Nigerian Armed Forces, the Nigeria Police Force, and other security agencies. The lawmakers described the successful rescue of abducted schoolchildren and teachers from Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State as a significant breakthrough in the fight against terrorism and kidnapping. 
The motion was moved by the Senate Leader, Senator Michael Opeyemi Bamidele of Ekiti Central. It was co-sponsored by all members of the 10th Senate and received overwhelming support during plenary.
In recounting the incident, the Senate noted that on 15 May 2026, heavily armed terrorists stormed schools in Oriire LGA. They abducted 39 schoolchildren and seven teachers. The attack caused widespread anxiety for families and renewed concerns about the targeting of educational institutions by criminal groups.
Following the abductions, President Tinubu immediately ordered the Armed Forces and all intelligence and security agencies to mobilize every lawful resource available. The directive was to ensure the unconditional and safe rescue of all the victims.
After more than 50 days of intelligence-led operations, the security forces secured the release of the victims on 10 July 2026. The operation also led to the arrest of eight terrorists, while several others were neutralized. Senators described the outcome as proof of improved professionalism, better coordination, and stronger operational effectiveness across Nigeria’s security agencies.
The Senate also acknowledged the cost of the mission. It lamented the deaths of Lieutenant F. A. Isaac, Private Silas Musa of the Nigerian Army, and Sergeant Abena John Jerome of the Nigeria Police Force. Lance Corporal Adamu Hussain was recognized for his bravery after sustaining injuries during the rescue.
A minute of silence was observed for the fallen personnel. The chamber extended condolences to their families, to the Armed Forces, the Police, and the broader security community for their sacrifice.
Lawmakers praised the resilience of the rescued pupils and teachers. They urged the Federal Government to ensure proper rehabilitation through relevant agencies. The Senate noted with sadness that one of the abducted teachers died while in captivity.
Further commendations went to the Chief of Defence Staff, the Service Chiefs, the National Security Adviser, the Inspector-General of Police, the Department of State Services, the National Intelligence Agency, and all officers involved. The Senate cited their patriotism, professionalism, and dedication to duty.
To consolidate gains, the Senate called on the Federal Government to sustain military and intelligence operations against terrorists, kidnappers, and bandits. It recommended improved funding, modern equipment, enhanced surveillance technology, better logistics, and improved welfare for personnel. The chamber also demanded prompt payment of death benefits, pensions, insurance, and other entitlements to families of the fallen heroes, and urged citizens to support security agencies with credible information.
During debate, two amendments were adopted. Senator Victor Umeh proposed that the Armed Forces review and replicate the operational strategies used in Oriire for future missions nationwide. Senator Adams Oshiomhole urged Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde to avoid statements that could undermine the efforts of the Federal Government and security agencies, after the governor had called for a UN investigation into the rescue.
At the end of deliberations, the Senate directed the Clerk to the National Assembly to transmit copies of its resolutions to President Tinubu, the Chief of Defence Staff, Service Chiefs, the NSA, the IGP, and heads of other relevant agencies. The transmission is to serve as a formal expression of appreciation, confidence, and continued support for efforts to safeguard the nation.
