Senate approves N50m for families of teachers, soldiers killed in Oyo abduction

The Senate has approved a donation of N50 million to the families of two teachers and three soldiers who lost their lives during the abduction of pupils and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State.

Senate President Godswill Akpabio announced the donation during Wednesday’s plenary, saying each of the five affected families would receive N10 million in recognition of the sacrifices made by the deceased.

Akpabio commended the Nigerian Armed Forces and other security agencies for rescuing the abducted pupils and teachers after they spent 56 days in captivity.

He said the financial support was intended to assist the bereaved families and honour those who died during the tragic incident.

The victims were affected by the May 15 attack on schools in Oriire Local Government Area, where gunmen abducted more than 45 pupils and teachers.

Two teachers were killed during the ordeal, while three soldiers lost their lives during the rescue operation mounted by security forces.

The Senate had earlier observed a minute’s silence in honour of the deceased and praised President Bola Tinubu, the military and other security agencies for the successful rescue of the remaining victims.

Lawmakers also reiterated the need to strengthen security around schools and improve the welfare of security personnel involved in high-risk operations across the country.