President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio, on Tuesday led the upper chamber of the National Assembly in mourning the victims of the recent school abduction in Oyo State, describing the incident as a national tragedy and a direct assault on Nigeria’s future.
Speaking at the resumption of Senate plenary following the Sallah recess on June 2, 2026, Akpabio urged lawmakers to return to their legislative duties with renewed commitment, reminding them that they remained “custodians of the hopes and aspirations of Nigerians.”
However, he noted that the Senate reconvened under the weight of grief following the abduction of schoolchildren and teachers in Oyo State, an attack he said had shaken the entire nation.
According to the Senate President, the tragedy transcended ordinary criminality, striking at the very heart of Nigeria’s aspirations as a nation.
“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. And we mourn because, for as long as those children remain in captivity, our nation remains captive with them,” he said.
Akpabio paid tribute to two teachers who lost their lives in the incident, Mr. Michael Oyedokun, who reportedly died while in captivity, and Mr. Adesiyan Adegboye, who was killed during the attack.
He also mourned a pupil whose life was tragically cut short.
The Senate observed a minute of silence in honour of the deceased, while Akpabio prayed for the repose of their souls and comfort for their families.
“May the Almighty God grant them eternal rest and comfort all who mourn,” he said.
On behalf of the Senate, Akpabio extended condolences to the bereaved families, the affected school community, and the government and people of Oyo State.
He expressed optimism that those still being held captive would soon regain their freedom through the efforts of security agencies and government authorities.
Despite the sorrow, the Senate President cautioned against politicising the tragedy, warning that national security challenges should not be exploited for partisan gain.
“At moments such as these, there is a temptation to divide, to accuse, and to seek advantage from tragedy. Those who kidnap our children do not distinguish between party, faith, or ethnicity. Their assault is directed against Nigeria itself. Therefore, our response must be equal to the challenge,” he stated.
He called on lawmakers to support all lawful measures aimed at strengthening national security, safeguarding schools, and ensuring that perpetrators of violent crimes are brought to justice.
Akpabio further urged the Senate to remain united despite political differences, emphasising the need for responsible leadership at a critical moment in the country’s history.
“Let us continue to conduct ourselves with dignity so that future generations will say that when Nigeria faced difficulty, this Senate did not falter; when leadership was required, this Senate did not shrink; and when duty called, this Senate answered,” he said.
