The Nigerian Senate has strongly denounced the kidnapping of 87 students and teachers across Borno and Oyo states within a single day, labeling these acts a direct strike against the country’s future prospects.
Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele, through his media office on Sunday, voiced deep concern over the events, pointing out that they undermine past efforts to safeguard educational institutions nationwide.
In Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, 45 pupils and educators were seized by suspected gunmen. Meanwhile, in Askira/Uba Local Government Area of Borno State, Boko Haram terrorists reportedly abducted 42 individuals from Mussa Primary and Junior Secondary School.
Bamidele emphasized that these back-to-back incidents highlight an urgent need for enhanced security in schools, warning that ongoing attacks on learning centers jeopardize national growth and development.
He noted that the National Assembly is moving forward with constitutional amendments to create state police forces, a move he sees as essential for improving overall security. The proposal is nearly complete and will soon be sent to state Houses of Assembly for approval, he added.
As a stopgap, Bamidele urged federal and state authorities to bolster the Safe School Initiative, especially given the high number of out-of-school children in the country.
He called for cross-party support for security and constitutional reforms, insisting that the abductions should not be politicized. The Senate plans to pursue further legislative measures to address insecurity when it reconvenes.