The senator representing Kogi Central, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, has urged the Federal and state governments to provide psychological support and rehabilitation for the pupils and teachers recently rescued from kidnappers in Oyo State, saying their recovery should extend beyond regaining their freedom.
Akpoti-Uduaghan made the appeal on Tuesday during plenary while contributing to a motion on the rescue of 39 pupils and six teachers abducted from schools in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State.
The victims were kidnapped on May 15, 2026, when gunmen attacked three schools in Yawota and Ahoro Esienle communities. They were rescued on July 10 after spending more than seven weeks in captivity following a coordinated security operation.
The lawmaker said although the rescue was commendable, the victims would require structured mental health support to overcome the psychological impact of their ordeal.
“Beyond celebrating their return, we must ensure they receive psychological support, trauma counselling and rehabilitation to help them recover fully and reintegrate into their families, schools and communities,” she said.
Akpoti-Uduaghan commended President Bola Tinubu for providing leadership during the rescue efforts and praised the Nigerian Armed Forces and other security agencies for securing the victims’ release.
She also congratulated the rescued pupils, teachers and their families, describing their return as a source of relief for the nation.
The senator, however, paid tribute to one of the abducted teachers who died while in captivity, praying for the repose of his soul and extending condolences to his family.
Following deliberations, the Senate adopted the motion sponsored by Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele, applauding President Tinubu, the military, intelligence agencies and other security institutions for the successful rescue operation.
The Senate also honoured security personnel who lost their lives or sustained injuries during the operation and urged the Federal Government to intensify efforts against kidnappers, bandits and other criminal groups operating across the country.
Lawmakers further called for improved welfare, equipment and training for security personnel, while urging the government to promptly pay the benefits and entitlements of officers who died in the line of duty.
The Senate also appealed to security agencies to sustain ongoing operations aimed at securing the release of other Nigerians still being held captive, describing the Oyo rescue as a positive development capable of strengthening public confidence in the country’s security architecture.
