The Nigerian National Assembly has resumed plenary with an urgent call for intensified efforts to rescue citizens held captive by kidnappers. The Senate and House of Representatives, in separate sittings, urged security agencies to secure the immediate and safe release of victims, particularly 116 schoolchildren abducted in Borno State. Senate President Godswill Akpabio emphasized that the protection of lives is a primary responsibility of the state.
Akpabio stated that the Senate would deploy legislation, appropriation, and oversight to tackle insecurity, flooding, and the rising cost of living. He noted that citizens in captivity are entitled to the full force of constitutional responsibilities, stressing that sympathy alone cannot discharge the government's duties. The Senate President added that the suspension of plenary had not stopped difficulties confronting the country.
In the House of Representatives, the call was more specific, focusing on 116 schoolchildren abducted in different communities in Borno State. The House urged relevant security agencies to intensify search-and-rescue operations, enhance intelligence gathering, and inter-agency coordination. The motion was moved by Midala Balami, who drew attention to the prolonged captivity of victims abducted in Mussa, Lassa, and along the Buratai-Maiduguri Road.
According to Balami, 44 schoolchildren were abducted from Mussa on May 15, 2026, alongside 36 other persons, and 36 students and two teachers in Lassa Ward. As of the date of the motion, the victims had spent over 138 days, 70 days, and 160 days in captivity, respectively. The prolonged captivity has subjected families and communities to emotional distress, uncertainty, and fear.
Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, also called for intensified efforts to rescue over 40 children abducted in Borno on the same day as the May 15 abduction of students and teachers from Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State. Makinde made the call while receiving the report of the Judicial Commission of Inquiry constituted to investigate the Oriire incident.
Meanwhile, in Edo State, a special high court sentenced four convicted criminals to death by hanging for kidnapping and membership of cult groups. The convicts were arrested in connection with the June 14, 2026, kidnapping of a woman at the elite Vegetable Market in Benin metropolis. Governor Monday Okoebholo said the measure would stem the tide of kidnapping and send signals to criminal elements.
The National Assembly's call for rescue efforts comes as the country's insecurity challenges persist. Key points include:
Key points
- The Senate and House of Representatives have urged security agencies to intensify efforts to rescue kidnapped Nigerians.
- 116 schoolchildren remain abducted in Borno State, with some victims in captivity for over 160 days.
- Governor Seyi Makinde and the National Assembly are calling for strengthened security measures to protect vulnerable communities.
