Senate approves ₦50m for families of security personnel, teachers killed in Oyo rescue operation

By Henry Umoru

ABUJA — The Senate on Wednesday approved a ₦50 million donation to the families of five Nigerians who lost their lives during the rescue operation that freed schoolchildren abducted in Oyo State after 56 days in captivity.

The resolution followed a proposal by the President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio, during plenary. Senators unanimously endorsed the donation, with each of the five bereaved families to receive ₦10 million.

Speaking during the session, Akpabio recalled that the Senate had on Tuesday commended President Bola Tinubu and the nation’s security agencies for the successful rescue of the abducted pupils and their teachers.

He also 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 rescue mission was successful, it came at a significant cost with the loss of security personnel and teachers.

Akpabio identified the deceased 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 named the two teachers who died in captivity as Deacon John Olaleye and Michael Oyedokun.

“In appreciation of their sacrifice, the Senate has resolved to donate ₦50 million to be shared equally among the five bereaved families,” Akpabio said.

He explained that each family would receive ₦10 million to assist the dependants of the deceased.

The proposal was adopted through a voice vote, with senators unanimously supporting the donation.

Akpabio subsequently directed the Senate leadership to present the cheques to the affected families on behalf of the upper legislative chamber.

He expressed hope that the financial support, though symbolic, would provide some relief to the bereaved families while demonstrating the Senate’s appreciation for the sacrifices made by the fallen security personnel and teachers.

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