By Ademola Adekusibe
The Nigerian Senate has issued a stern warning to Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde over his call for a United Nations investigation into the Oriire school abduction, cautioning that such remarks could undermine the Federal Government’s fight against terrorism and kidnapping.
The upper legislative chamber, in a resolution on Tuesday, insisted that the abduction was a domestic security matter and rejected any international intervention. Lawmakers also warned the governor against making statements capable of weakening public confidence in Nigeria’s security institutions and the sacrifices made by personnel involved in the rescue mission.
The Senate’s position followed a motion sponsored by Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele, commending security agencies for the successful rescue of 39 pupils and seven teachers after 56 days in captivity. During deliberations, Senator Adams Oshiomhole faulted Makinde’s demand for a UN-led probe, accusing him of politicising Nigeria’s security challenges.
The Senate resolved that Makinde should allow relevant national authorities to investigate the circumstances surrounding the abduction instead of seeking international intervention. Lawmakers also commended President Bola Tinubu for providing leadership that culminated in the rescue, which resulted in the arrest of eight suspected terrorists and the neutralisation of several others.
The Senate observed a minute’s silence in honour of security personnel who lost their lives during the operation. It also urged the federal government to improve the welfare of personnel engaged in counter-kidnapping operations.