Oyo School Abduction: Obi Pleads for Victims’ Release as Senate Demands Urgent Rescue

Former presidential candidate Peter Obi and the Senate have called for urgent action following the abduction of schoolchildren, teachers and other residents by terrorists in Oyo State.

In a statement shared on his X handle on Wednesday, Obi appealed directly to the abductors, urging them to release the victims and allow them to return safely to their families.

Expressing sadness over reports concerning the condition of some of the captives, Obi described the incident as a heartbreaking reminder of the insecurity confronting many communities across Nigeria.

“I am deeply shocked and heartbroken by the condition in which these abducted school children are,” he said.

The former Anambra State governor stressed that children should never become targets of violence under any circumstances and appealed to the kidnappers’ conscience.

“I therefore appeal to your sense of mercy: release these children immediately. Let them go,” Obi added.

Also reacting to the incident, the Senate strongly condemned the attack and urged security agencies to intensify efforts to secure the release of all those abducted.

Lawmakers held a minute’s silence in memory of victims who lost their lives and expressed concern about the growing number of attacks on schools and rural communities.

The Senate’s position followed a motion introduced by Senator Abdulfatai Buhari, representing Oyo North Senatorial District, who highlighted the killings and abductions of pupils, teachers and a toddler during the attack.

During the debate, senators called for enhanced intelligence gathering, improved protection for vulnerable communities and stronger implementation of the Safe Schools Initiative.

Senator Adams Oshiomhole questioned the effectiveness of security spending and called for a detailed audit of funds allocated to security agencies.

According to him, increasing budgetary allocations without proper accountability may not yield the desired results in tackling insecurity.

Senator Sani Musa also stressed the importance of transparency and oversight, urging lawmakers to ensure that security resources are properly managed and translated into improved operational outcomes.

Presiding over the plenary, Deputy Senate President Jibrin Barau praised the efforts of security agencies while emphasising that addressing insecurity requires coordinated action from all arms of government.

The Senate reiterated its commitment to supporting measures aimed at strengthening national security and ensuring the safe rescue of all abducted victims.

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