Senate Condemns Abduction Of 87 Students, Teachers In Oyo And Borno

The Nigerian Senate has condemned the abduction of students and teachers in separate attacks in Oyo and Borno States, describing the incidents as a serious threat to Nigeria’s future.

According to reports, a total of 87 students and teachers were abducted within 24 hours during attacks on schools in both states.

Reacting to the development, Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele described the incidents as deeply disturbing, especially considering previous investments aimed at improving school security across the country.

In Oyo State, suspected gunmen reportedly attacked schools in Oriire Local Government Area and abducted 45 pupils and teachers.

The affected schools included institutions within Ahoro-Esinele and Yawota communities in the Ogbomoso axis.

Meanwhile, in Borno State, Boko Haram terrorists were said to have kidnapped 42 students from Mussa Primary and Junior Secondary School in Askira/Uba Local Government Area.

Bamidele stated that the attacks highlighted the urgent need for stronger security measures around educational institutions nationwide.

According to him, persistent attacks on schools continue to threaten national development and worsen the country’s out-of-school children crisis.

The Senate leader also disclosed that the National Assembly is currently advancing constitutional amendments aimed at establishing state police structures across the country.

He explained that the proposal had reached an advanced stage and would soon be transmitted to state Houses of Assembly for consideration and approval.

Bamidele further urged both federal and state governments to strengthen the implementation of the Safe School Initiative as an immediate measure to protect schools and students.

He also appealed for bipartisan support toward security reforms and warned against politicising issues relating to insecurity and school attacks.

The Senate assured Nigerians that lawmakers would continue pursuing legislative measures targeted at addressing insecurity across the country once plenary resumes.

The recent incidents have intensified public concern over the growing wave of attacks on schools, especially within vulnerable communities facing recurring security threats.