By Anayo Akwitti
President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio, has lamented the worsening security situation in the country, saying lawmakers resumed legislative duties under the shadow of national tragedy following the abduction of schoolchildren and teachers in Oyo State.
Speaking during plenary on Tuesday after the Sallah recess, Akpabio said the excitement that should have accompanied the Senate’s return was overshadowed by the painful reality of growing insecurity and the continued captivity of dozens of victims kidnapped from a school in Oyo State.
“We resume our work under the mournful shadow of a tragedy that has shaken our nation,” he said.
The Senate President described the abduction as more than an attack on innocent citizens, calling it “an assault on our collective humanity.”
According to him, the incident highlights the urgent need for stronger security measures to protect vulnerable Nigerians, particularly children and educators.
“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,” Akpabio stated.
He stressed that as long as the victims remain in captivity, the nation continues to share in their suffering.
Akpabio also paid tribute to two educators, Michael Oyedokun, who reportedly died in captivity, and Adesiyan Adegboye, who lost his life during the attack. He further mourned the death of a child linked to the tragic incident.
“We share the pain of the bereaved families. Their loss is our loss. Their sorrow is our sorrow. Their pain is our pain,” he said.
Despite the tragedy, the Senate President expressed optimism that ongoing efforts by government and security agencies would lead to the safe rescue of those still being held.
He extended the Senate’s condolences to the affected families, the school community, and the Government and people of Oyo State.
More than 40 persons, including teachers, teenagers and toddlers, were abducted by armed bandits from a school in Orire Local Government Area of Oyo State over two weeks ago, sparking nationwide concern and renewed calls for stronger action against insecurity.
