By Musa Baba Adamu
President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio, has condemned the abduction of schoolchildren and teachers in Oyo State, describing the incident as an assault on Nigeria’s collective humanity and calling for national unity in the fight against insecurity.
Speaking on Tuesday during the Senate’s resumption from the Sallah recess, Godswill Akpabio expressed grief over the tragedy and urged Nigerians to remain united in confronting security challenges facing the country.
Akpabio said the Senate was resuming its legislative duties “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.”
According to him, the attack strikes at the heart of the nation’s future and educational system.
“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.”
The Senate President also paid tribute to two educators who lost their lives in connection with the incident, identifying them as Michael Oyedokun, who died in captivity, and Adesiyan Adegboye, who was killed during the attack.
“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.”
He added that the Senate shared in the pain of the affected families.
“Their loss is our loss. Their sorrow is our sorrow. Their pain is our pain. Yet even in the midst of grief, we remain hopeful that, through the determined efforts of the government and our security agencies, those still in captivity will be safely rescued and reunited with their loved ones.”
Akpabio extended the condolences of the Senate to the bereaved families, the affected school community, and the government and people of Oyo State.
The Senate President also cautioned politicians against exploiting the tragedy for political gains, saying national security should transcend partisan considerations.
“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.”
He stressed that criminal elements threatening the country do not discriminate based on political affiliation, religion or ethnicity.
“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.”
Akpabio called on lawmakers and Nigerians to continue supporting all lawful measures aimed at strengthening security, protecting schools and communities, and ensuring that perpetrators of violent crimes are brought to justice.
“We must 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.”
The Senate President further urged members of the National Assembly to remain committed to their constitutional responsibilities and work collectively in the interest of the nation.
“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 concluded by expressing confidence in the country’s future and calling on senators to continue serving with dignity and dedication.
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