Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, who represents Kogi Central Senatorial District, has called on the Federal Government and state governments to provide psychological care, trauma counselling and rehabilitation for the pupils and teachers recently rescued from kidnappers in Oyo State.
Speaking during Tuesday’s Senate plenary, the lawmaker stressed that the victims’ recovery should not end with their release but should include adequate mental health support to help them overcome the emotional impact of their ordeal.
Her remarks came during deliberations on the successful rescue of 39 pupils and six teachers who were abducted on May 15, 2026, after armed bandits attacked three schools in the Yawota and Ahoro Esienle communities of Oriire Local Government Area. The victims regained their freedom on July 10 after spending more than 50 days in captivity following a military operation.
Akpoti-Uduaghan praised President Bola Tinubu, the Nigerian Armed Forces and other security agencies for securing the release of the victims, describing the operation as a demonstration of commitment and professionalism.
She also congratulated the rescued pupils, teachers and their families, noting that their safe return brought relief to the nation and reflected the resilience of both the victims and the security personnel involved.
The senator, however, emphasised that survivors of kidnapping often suffer lasting emotional and psychological effects, making professional counselling and rehabilitation essential for their successful reintegration into their families, schools and communities.
She urged relevant government agencies to prioritise mental health services for the victims to ensure their full recovery from the trauma they experienced during captivity.
Akpoti-Uduaghan also paid tribute to the teacher who died while being held by the kidnappers, offering condolences to the bereaved family and praying for the peaceful repose of the deceased.
Following deliberations, the Senate adopted a motion sponsored by Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele, commending President Tinubu, the Armed Forces, intelligence agencies and other security institutions for the successful rescue mission.
The upper chamber further honoured security personnel who lost their lives or sustained injuries during the operation and urged the Federal Government to strengthen military and intelligence operations against terrorists, kidnappers and other criminal groups.
Lawmakers also 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 rescue mission. They further appealed to security agencies to sustain efforts to secure the release of other Nigerians still being held captive across the country.
