The Senate has sounded the alarm over a terrifying spike in kidnappings and violent attacks nationwide, demanding immediate federal action to rescue abducted schoolchildren, teachers, and other victims in Oyo State. Lawmakers also called for a military offensive in Kwara North, where victims from the Woro massacre and members of the Emir of Yashikira’s family remain in captivity.
In a series of emergency motions, the upper chamber warned that the relentless attacks on schools, communities, and traditional institutions threaten national security and the future of education. The Senate directed security agencies to deploy all necessary resources to free dozens seized on May 15 in Ahoro-Esiele and surrounding areas of Oriire Local Government Area.
Senator Abdulfatai Buhari, who led the debate, described the attack as a direct assault on Nigeria’s future, noting that a toddler was among those abducted and a teacher was killed. “This happened in what should have been a safe learning environment,” he said, as the Senate observed a minute of silence for the victims.
Senator Adams Oshiomhole demanded stricter oversight of security spending, while Senator Sunday Karimi urged state governments to play a more active role. The Senate acknowledged a federal delegation visit led by the President’s Chief of Staff, Femi Gbajabiamila, to affected communities.
Meanwhile, gunmen in Ibadan kidnapped the sister of former Power Minister Adebayo Adelabu and her twin sons, Peter and Paul, as they headed to school. A media aide confirmed the 7:30am abduction, saying security operatives have launched a rescue operation. The attack came just 20 days after 47 students and teachers were taken in the same state.
In Zamfara, bandits snatched seven students from Federal Polytechnic, Kaura Namoda, from their off-campus residence. Six remain in captivity as security forces, including Operation Fansan Yamma, coordinate a rescue. A private security guard also fled with two children in Minna, demanding ransom from their businessman father.
The Coalition of Northern Groups accused the federal government of double standards, noting that while Oyo victims received high-level visits and promises of 1,000 forest guards, 42 pupils abducted the same day in Borno have been largely ignored. The Nigeria Labour Congress threatened solidarity strikes with teachers, and opposition figures Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi condemned the government’s failure to protect citizens.
In Sokoto, fresh bandit attacks on Dan Gulbi community in Tureta Local Government Area left over 20 feared dead, just 48 hours after 17 were killed in the same village. Governorship candidate Manir Dan’iya called for an urgent security review, criticizing the government’s lack of empathy.
