…Seeks Sustained Offensive After Oriire Rescue Success
The Senate on Tuesday unanimously commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Nigeria’s security agencies for the successful rescue of abducted schoolchildren and teachers from Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, describing the operation as a major breakthrough in the fight against terrorism and kidnapping.
The resolution followed a motion sponsored by the Senate Leader, Senator Michael Opeyemi Bamidele (Ekiti Central), and co-sponsored by all members of the 10th Senate during plenary.
The upper chamber recalled that on May 15, 2026, heavily armed terrorists invaded schools in Oriire Local Government Area, abducting 39 schoolchildren and seven teachers, an incident that triggered nationwide outrage and heightened concerns over attacks on educational institutions.
Lawmakers noted that President Tinubu swiftly directed the Armed Forces and other security and intelligence agencies to deploy all necessary resources to secure the victims’ unconditional release.
They further observed that after over 50 days of intelligence-led operations, the victims were successfully rescued on July 10, 2026, with eight terrorists arrested and several others neutralised.
The Senate described the outcome as a reflection of improved coordination, professionalism and operational efficiency among the nation’s security agencies.
However, the chamber paid tribute to security personnel who lost their lives during the operation, including Lieutenant F. A. Isaac and Private Silas Musa of the Nigerian Army, as well as Sergeant Abena John Jerome of the Nigeria Police Force.
It also acknowledged the bravery of Lance Corporal Adamu Hussain, who sustained injuries in the course of the mission.
A minute’s silence was observed in honour of the fallen officers, while condolences were extended to their families, the Armed Forces, the Nigeria Police Force and the wider security community.
The Senate also commended the rescued pupils and teachers for their resilience, while urging the Federal Government to ensure their proper rehabilitation through relevant agencies, noting that one of the abducted teachers died in captivity.
It further applauded the Chief of Defence Staff, Service Chiefs, National Security Adviser, Inspector-General of Police, Department of State Services, National Intelligence Agency, and all operatives involved in the rescue for their dedication and patriotism.
The lawmakers urged the Federal Government to sustain the momentum by strengthening military and intelligence operations against terrorists, kidnappers and bandits through improved funding, modern equipment, enhanced surveillance and better welfare for security personnel.
They also called for the prompt payment of death benefits, pensions and other entitlements to families of fallen officers.
During the debate, Senator Victor Umeh proposed an amendment urging the Armed Forces to replicate the successful strategies deployed in the Oriire rescue mission in future operations nationwide. The amendment was adopted.
Similarly, Senator Adams Oshiomhole moved an additional prayer urging Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, to refrain from statements that could undermine the efforts of security agencies. The Senate adopted the resolution.
At the end of deliberations, the Senate directed the Clerk to the National Assembly to transmit its resolutions to President Tinubu and heads of relevant security agencies as a mark of appreciation and continued support.