Senators during plenary in Abuja, where the Senate passed for second reading a bill proposing tougher penalties and stronger enforcement measures against counterfeit medicines, fake drugs and unsafe processed foods
The Senate on Wednesday approved a ₦50 million donation to the families of five security personnel and civilians who lost their lives during the rescue of abducted schoolchildren and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State.
The decision followed the Senate’s tribute to the fallen heroes on Tuesday, where lawmakers commended their courage, professionalism and the coordinated efforts of security agencies that led to the successful rescue operation.
The joint security mission secured the release of 39 schoolchildren and seven teachers who were abducted by gunmen on May 15 in Oriire LGA.
Those who died during the operation were identified as Lieutenant F.A. Isaac and Private Silas Musa of the Nigerian Army, Sergeant Abena John Jerome of the Nigeria Police Force, and two teachers.
Announcing the intervention, Senate President Godswill Akpabio directed that each bereaved family receive ₦10 million, bringing the total donation to ₦50 million.
He said the financial support was intended to assist the families, particularly the children left behind by the deceased.
The Senate’s decision followed the adoption of a motion sponsored by Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele, who described the abduction as a reflection of the growing threat posed by organised criminal groups in the South-West.
Bamidele said security agencies launched an intelligence-led operation after President Bola Tinubu directed them to deploy every lawful resource to secure the victims’ release. The operation culminated in the successful rescue of the abductees on July 10.
According to the Senate, security operatives also neutralised several kidnappers and arrested eight suspected terrorists during the operation.
Lawmakers said the rescue had strengthened public confidence in the country’s security architecture and demonstrated the effectiveness of inter-agency collaboration in tackling insecurity.
The Senate further urged the Federal Government to provide comprehensive medical care and welfare support for Lance Corporal Adamu Hussain of the 81 Battalion, who sustained serious injuries while shielding the abducted children from gunfire.
It also called for enhanced security measures, including the deployment of advanced surveillance technology, improved intelligence gathering and better equipment for security agencies to prevent future attacks.
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