The Nigerian Senate has strongly condemned the abduction of 87 students and teachers in separate attacks across Borno and Oyo States, describing the incidents as a direct assault on the nation’s future.
Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele issued the condemnation in a statement released on Sunday through his Directorate of Media and Public Affairs, expressing deep concern over the coordinated nature of the attacks carried out within 24 hours.
In Oyo State, suspected gunmen abducted 45 students and teachers from Baptist Nursery and Primary School in Yawota, along with Community Grammar School and L.A. Primary School in Esiele, Oriire Local Government Area. In a separate incident in Borno State, Boko Haram terrorists reportedly attacked Mussa Primary and Junior Secondary School in Askira/Uba Local Government Area, abducting 42 students.
Bamidele described the incidents as a painful reminder of Nigeria’s persistent security challenges, noting that despite global funding efforts in past years to secure schools, such tragedies continue to occur.
He linked the recurring attacks to the urgency of establishing state police, a proposal currently under review by the National Assembly as part of ongoing constitutional amendments. According to him, the 10th Senate is working to conclude the process before transmitting it to state assemblies for approval.
The Senate Leader urged sub-national governments to treat the proposal as a national priority, stressing that it should not be politicised. He also called for stronger implementation of the Safe School Initiative as a temporary measure to protect educational institutions, noting Nigeria’s high number of out-of-school children.
Bamidele further stated that the National Assembly remains committed to strengthening security legislation, including amendments to the Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, to improve justice delivery and deter violent crimes.
He assured that lawmakers would continue to push for solutions when plenary resumes.
