The senator representing Oyo North Senatorial District, Abdulfatai Buhari, has formally brought the abduction of schoolchildren, teachers and a toddler in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State before the Senate, urging urgent federal intervention and the immediate rescue of the victims.

Moving a motion on the floor of the Senate on Wednesday, Buhari described the incident as a horrifying attack on the nation’s future, noting that armed kidnappers invaded Ahoro-Esiele and adjoining communities in Oriire LGA, abducting dozens of pupils and teachers while killing others, including a mathematics teacher, Mr. Michael Oyedokun.

The lawmaker lamented that schools, which ought to symbolize safety, hope and learning, had become targets for criminal elements. He expressed concern that a toddler was among those still in captivity, describing the situation as a stark reminder of the vulnerability of rural communities.

Following deliberations, the Senate unanimously condemned the abduction and called on the Federal Government and security agencies to deploy all necessary resources to secure the immediate release of the victims. The upper chamber also urged the strengthening of the Safe Schools Initiative through enhanced surveillance, intelligence gathering and improved security around schools and vulnerable communities nationwide.

The Senate further sympathised with the affected families, the people of Oyo State and the state government, reaffirming its commitment to monitoring efforts aimed at rescuing those still being held by the kidnappers.