The Nigerian Senate has approved a N50 million donation to the relatives of five individuals killed during the abduction of schoolchildren and teachers in Oyo State.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio announced the donation during plenary on Wednesday, describing the deaths as a “painful sacrifice” in the nation’s ongoing battle against insecurity.
The gesture includes N10 million each to the families of the two teachers murdered by abductors and the three soldiers who lost their lives in the rescue operation.
Akpabio lauded the Nigerian Armed Forces and other security agencies for the successful rescue of the abducted victims after nearly two months in captivity.
He stated that the donation was “aimed at providing some support to the bereaved families and recognising the sacrifices made by the deceased in the course of the tragic incident.”
The incident involved gunmen who abducted 39 children and seven teachers from three schools in the Oriire Local Government Area on May 15. Two teachers were killed during the ordeal. Security forces rescued the remaining victims on July 10 without paying ransom.
The victims were handed over to state officials on July 13 after medical checks, with some still receiving treatment.
This Senate intervention comes amid broader calls for enhanced security measures in the region, including the establishment of new military bases by the federal government.
The donation is expected to offer immediate relief and shows the nation’s appreciation for the ultimate price paid by the deceased in protecting young lives.
