The Nigerian Senate has criticised Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde for calling on the United Nations (UN) to investigate the abduction of pupils and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area of the state.
Speaking during plenary on Tuesday, lawmakers faulted the governor’s appeal for an international probe, urging him to stop what they described as the trivialisation of a painful and sensitive national security issue.
The Senate’s reaction followed Makinde’s statewide broadcast on Monday, delivered shortly after the Nigerian military officially handed over the rescued pupils and teachers to the Oyo State Government.
In his address, the governor called on the United Nations and other international human rights and accountability organisations to independently examine the circumstances surrounding the kidnapping and the events that followed.
Responding, members of the Red Chamber rejected the proposal and instead commended the security agencies for the successful rescue operation.
The Senate praised the Chief of Defence Staff, other service chiefs, the National Security Adviser (NSA), Nuhu Ribadu, and all military and security personnel involved in the operation for what it described as their professionalism, courage, patriotism and dedication to national service.
Lawmakers also congratulated the rescued pupils, teachers and their families on the successful conclusion of their 56-day ordeal.
The Senate observed a moment in honour of the teacher who lost his life during the period of captivity and prayed for the peaceful repose of his soul.
In addition, the lawmakers urged the Federal Government to ensure the prompt payment of all statutory death benefits, insurance claims, pensions and other welfare entitlements due to the families of security personnel who lost their lives during the rescue mission.
The Red Chamber further called on the government to continue improving the welfare, training, equipment and operational capacity of members of the Armed Forces and other security agencies to strengthen the country’s fight against insecurity.
The Senate also appealed to Nigerians to continue supporting security agencies by providing timely intelligence, cooperating with law enforcement authorities and demonstrating patriotism in efforts to tackle criminal activities across the country.
