Support Security Agencies, Rescue Abducted Pupils and Teachers – Akpabio

The President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, has called for unity of purpose in the ongoing efforts to rescue schoolchildren and teachers abducted from two schools by terrorists in Oyo State.

Senator Akpabio made the call while welcoming his colleagues back from the Sallah recess. He noted that lawmakers resumed legislative duties under the mournful shadow of a tragedy that has shaken the nation. He described the abduction of the schoolchildren and teachers as not merely an attack on innocent citizens but an assault on humanity.
The Senate President said that in the midst of the disturbing situation, there is a temptation to divide the people along political lines. He cautioned politicians against such actions and urged them instead to unite in support of security agencies working to secure the safe rescue of the vulnerable children and teachers being held by criminals.
“The challenge before us is real. But so too is the courage of our people, the resilience of our institutions, and the enduring promise of Nigeria. Let us therefore approach the days ahead with collective resolve. Let us differ honestly, but remain united in our devotion to Nigeria,” he said.
Akpabio stressed that the nation mourns because failure to protect children endangers the future, while the inability to guarantee the safety of teachers weakens the foundations of education. “And we mourn because, for as long as those children remain in captivity, our nation remains captive with them,” he added.
The Senate President particularly expressed grief over the deaths of two dedicated educators, Mr. Michael Oyedokun, who died in captivity, and Mr. Adesiyan Adegboye, who lost his life during the attack. He also mourned a child who was killed during the violent incident.
He condoled with the bereaved families and said the Senate shared in their pain over the murder of the two teachers and the child. According to him, “Their loss is our loss. Their sorrow is our sorrow. Their pain is our pain.” He, however, expressed hope that through the determined efforts of the government and security agencies, those still in captivity would be rescued and reunited with their loved ones.
On behalf of the Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Akpabio extended condolences to the bereaved families, the affected school community, and the Government and people of Oyo State. He concluded by expressing faith in God, confidence in the country, and determination in the collective purpose of serving Nigeria.