The President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio has lamented the recent kidnapping of teachers and students by bandits in Oyo State and urged security agencies to redouble their efforts in rescuing the victims
Akpabio gave the charge on Tuesday at the resumption of Senate plenary on June 2, 2026 after a four-week recess that provided senators the opportunity to return to their constituencies and participate in party primaries
A statement by the Special Assistant to the President of the Senate on Media/Communications, Anietie Ekong quoted Senator Akpabio as having told fellow lawmakers that he regretted that the Senate was resuming in a mournful mood. “Friends and colleagues, 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.
“We mourn because if we cannot protect our children we imperil our future. We mourn because a nation that cannot guarantee the safety of its teachers weakens the very foundations upon which education rests.
“And we mourn because, for as long as those children remain in captivity, our nation remains captive with them.
“Today, we grieve the loss of two dedicated educators: Mr. Michael Oyedokun, who died in captivity, and Mr. Adesiyan Adegboye, who lost his life during the attack.
“We also mourn the child whose life was cut short before its promise could be fulfilled. We share the pain of the bereaved families. Their loss is our loss. Their sorrow is our sorrow. Their pain is our pain,” he lamented.
He however assured that through the determined efforts of the government and security agencies, those still in captivity would be safely rescued and reunited with their loved ones.
Akpabio urged politicians not to politicize the security of the country but to remain united in defeating banditry and terrorism. “At moments such as these, there is a temptation to divide, to accuse, and to seek advantage from tragedy.
“Politicians and aspirants must resist that temptation for such cheap publicity. Those who kidnap our children, terrorize our communities, and murder innocent citizens do not distinguish between party, faith, or ethnicity.
“Their assault is directed against Nigeria itself. Therefore, our response must be equal to the challenge. We must stand united, firm, and resolute.
“Let us continue to support every lawful and necessary measure to strengthen security, protect our schools, safeguard our communities, and ensure that every bandit faces the full weight of justice,” he said.
“On behalf of the Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, I extend our deepest condolences to the bereaved families, the affected school community, and the Government and people of Oyo State,” he said.
Leave a Reply