ABUJA — The Nigerian Senate officially condemned the abduction of schoolchildren and teachers in Oyo State during Tuesday's plenary session on June 2, 2026. Senate President Godswill Akpabio led the upper chamber in observing a minute of silence for the victims and described the ongoing crisis as a "mournful shadow" over the nation.

Key Statements from the Senate President

Addressing his colleagues upon the resumption of the Senate after the Sallah recess, Akpabio characterized the abduction as more than a crime it is a direct attack on the country's foundational values.

"Assault on Collective Humanity": Akpabio stated, "The abduction of schoolchildren and teachers in Oyo State is not merely an attack on innocent citizens; it is an assault on our collective humanity."

      •  The High Cost of Insecurity: He warned that the failure to protect educational environments imperils the future of the nation, noting: "We mourn because if we cannot protect our children, we imperil our future.We mourn because a nation that cannot guarantee the safety of its teachers weakens the very foundations upon which education rests."

      •  Warning Against Politicization: The Senate President cautioned politicians and aspirants against exploiting the tragedy for partisan advantage. He emphasized that the perpetrators of these crimes do not distinguish between party, faith, or ethnicity, and that the national response must remain united and resolute.

Status of Victims and Rescue Efforts

The Senate honored the memory of those who have lost their lives in connection with the May 15 attack in the Oriire Local Government Area:

Tributes: Akpabio paid tribute to two dedicated educators Michael Oyedokun, who died while in captivity, and Adesiyan Adegboye, who was killed during the initial attack as well as a child victim whose life was cut short.

Hope for the Captives: While acknowledging the "mournful shadow" cast by the tragedy, Akpabio expressed optimism that the ongoing, coordinated efforts by federal and state security agencies will secure the release of those still being held.

Next Steps: As part of the legislative response, Akpabio has directed the Senate Leader, Opeyemi Bamidele, to schedule a date for a national security summit aimed at reviewing existing resolutions and strengthening the country’s security architecture.