The Senate has cautioned Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde against making statements that could undermine the efforts of the Federal Government and security agencies in the fight against terrorism and kidnapping.
The warning followed Makinde’s recent call for the United Nations to investigate the abduction of pupils and teachers from Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State.
The position of the upper chamber formed part of resolutions adopted on Tuesday after lawmakers considered a motion sponsored by Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele on the successful rescue of the abducted pupils and teachers and the sacrifices made by security personnel during the operation.
The Senate commended President Bola Tinubu for directing the Armed Forces and other security agencies to deploy all necessary resources to secure the unconditional release of the victims, who were kidnapped by heavily armed terrorists on May 15, 2026.
Lawmakers also praised the Armed Forces, intelligence agencies and other security institutions for successfully rescuing the victims after more than 50 days in captivity. The operation led to the release of 39 pupils and seven teachers on July 10, while eight suspected terrorists were arrested and several others were reportedly neutralised.
The Senate described the operation as a demonstration of improved professionalism, operational efficiency and inter-agency collaboration among Nigeria’s security services.
However, the lawmakers noted that the rescue came at a heavy cost, paying tribute to Lieutenant F.A. Isaac, Private Silas Musa and Sergeant Abena John Jerome, who lost their lives during the operation. They also recognised Lance Corporal Adamu Hussain, who sustained injuries while taking part in the mission.
The Senate expressed sadness over the death of one of the abducted teachers while in captivity but said the successful rescue of the remaining victims had restored hope and confidence among Nigerians.
The chamber urged the Federal Government to ensure the prompt payment of death benefits, insurance claims, pensions and other entitlements to the families of the fallen security personnel.
It also called for improved welfare, training, equipment and operational capacity for members of the Armed Forces, the Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies, while urging the government to intensify military and intelligence operations against terrorists, kidnappers and other criminal groups across the country.
The Senate further appealed to security agencies to sustain efforts to rescue other Nigerians still being held captive.
The caution directed at Governor Makinde was introduced by Senator Adams Oshiomhole and seconded by Senator Aniekan Bassey during deliberations on the motion.
