The Senate on Wednesday approved a ₦50 million donation to the families of five Nigerians who lost their lives during the rescue of ORIIRE schoolchildren abducted in Oyo State after spending 56 days in captivity.
The decision followed an announcement by Senate President Godswill Akpabio during plenary, where lawmakers unanimously agreed to donate ₦10 million to each of the families of the three security personnel and two teachers killed in the operation.
Akpabio recalled that the Senate had on Tuesday commended President Bola Tinubu and the nation’s security agencies for securing the release of the abducted children and teachers.
He praised the Chief of Army Staff, the Director-General of the Department of State Services (DSS), the Inspector-General of Police, the Minister of Defence and President Tinubu for their roles in the operation.
According to him, although the mission ended with the safe rescue of the victims, it came at a heavy cost.
The Senate President identified the fallen security personnel as Lieutenant F. A. Isaac of the Nigerian Army, Private Silas Musa of the 81 Battalion, Nigerian Army, and Sergeant Abena John Jerome of the Nigeria Police Force.
He also identified the slain teachers as Deacon John Olaleye and Michael Oyedokun, saying both were killed while in captivity with the abducted children. Oyedokun was reportedly beheaded by the kidnappers before the rescue operation.
Akpabio said each family would receive ₦10 million to support the children and dependants left behind by the deceased.
He then sought the approval of senators through a voice vote, with lawmakers unanimously endorsing the proposal.
Following the approval, Akpabio directed the Senate leadership to present the cheques to the affected families on behalf of the upper chamber.
He said the financial support, though symbolic, would provide some relief to the bereaved families and reaffirm the Senate’s appreciation for the sacrifices made by the fallen security personnel and teachers.
Faridah Abdulkadiri
