THE Senate has issued a stern caution to Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde against making statements that could undermine Federal Government and security agency efforts in combating terrorism and kidnapping.
The warning came after Governor Makinde called on the United Nations to investigate the abduction of schoolchildren and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area. The Senate’s admonition was introduced by Senator Adams Oshiomhole and seconded by Senator Aniekan Bassey.
The caution formed part of resolutions adopted on Tuesday following a motion by Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele, which celebrated the successful rescue of 39 abducted pupils and seven teachers.
The victims were kidnapped by heavily armed terrorists on 15 May 2026 and held captive for more than 50 days before their release on 10 July. The operation, directed by President Bola Tinubu, resulted in the arrest of eight suspected terrorists, with several others neutralised.
However, the success came at a significant cost. The Senate acknowledged the sacrifices of Lieutenant F.A. Isaac, Private Silas Musa, and Sergeant Abena John Jerome, who lost their lives during the mission. Lance Corporal Adamu Hussain sustained injuries. The chamber also expressed sadness over the death of one teacher while in captivity.
Lawmakers praised the growing professionalism, operational efficiency, and inter-agency coordination demonstrated by the Armed Forces, intelligence agencies, and security institutions involved in the operation.
The Senate urged the Federal Government to ensure prompt payment of all statutory death benefits, insurance claims, and pensions due to the families of fallen security personnel. It also called for improved welfare, training, equipment, and operational capacity for security forces.
Additionally, the upper chamber called for intensified military and intelligence operations against criminal groups through modern equipment, advanced surveillance technology, and enhanced logistics.
The Senate further urged security agencies to intensify efforts to secure the release of other Nigerians still held captive across the country.
