Senator calls for trauma counseling for rescued Oyo schoolchildren

On May 15, 2026 armed bandits abducted 39 pupils and six teachers from three schools in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State. After more than 50 days in captivity, a military‑led operation freed the victims on July 10, 2026.

Senator Natasha Akpoti‑Uduaghan of Kogi Central used a Senate plenary session to commend President Bola Tinubu, the Nigerian Armed Forces and security agencies for the rescue. She urged the federal and state governments, together with relevant agencies, to provide comprehensive psychological support, trauma counselling and rehabilitation for the survivors, emphasizing the lasting emotional scars of prolonged captivity. Akpoti‑Uduaghan also paid tribute to a teacher who died while held and called for benefits and improved welfare for security personnel killed or injured during the mission. The Senate adopted a motion praising the rescue and urging intensified action against kidnapping, terrorism and banditry.