Senate takes major decision over five who died in Oyo school abduction crisis

The Senate has approved a ₦50 million donation to the families of five Nigerians who died during the kidnapping crisis involving schoolchildren and teachers in Oyo State.

Each bereaved family will receive ₦10 million following the unanimous adoption of a proposal presented by Senate President Godswill Akpabio during Wednesday’s plenary.

The deceased comprised two Nigerian Army personnel, one police officer and two teachers.

Akpabio identified the security operatives as Lieutenant F. A. Isaac of the Nigerian Army, Private Silas Musa of the Army’s 81 Battalion and Sergeant Abena John Jerome of the Nigeria Police Force.

The two teachers who died while in captivity were identified as Deacon John Olaleye and Michael Oyedokun.

The Senate President said the donation was intended to recognise their sacrifices and provide financial support to their dependants.

“In appreciation of their sacrifice, the Senate has resolved to donate ₦50 million to be shared equally among the five bereaved families,” Akpabio said.

The decision followed the rescue of the abducted schoolchildren and their teachers after 56 days in captivity.

Akpabio said that although the rescue operation was successful, it came at a significant human cost.

He commended President Bola Tinubu and the country’s security agencies for their roles in securing the victims’ release.

The Senate President also praised the Chief of Army Staff, the Director-General of the Department of State Services, the Inspector-General of Police and the Minister of Defence for their involvement in the operation.

Senators approved the donation through a unanimous voice vote.

Akpabio subsequently directed the Senate leadership to present the cheques to the five families on behalf of the upper legislative chamber.

He expressed hope that the financial intervention would provide some relief to the families and demonstrate the Senate’s appreciation for the sacrifices of the deceased.