By Peace Erewunmi

The Nigerian Senate has disclosed the identities of security personnel who lost their lives during the operation that secured the release of abducted pupils and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State after 56 days in captivity.

The fallen officers were identified 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. The Senate also revealed that Lance Corporal Adamu Hussain of the 81 Battalion sustained injuries during the rescue mission.

The disclosures were made during plenary following the consideration of a motion sponsored by Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele and co-sponsored by other lawmakers. The Senate commended the Armed Forces and security agencies for the intelligence-led operation, which resulted in the rescue of 39 pupils and seven teachers, the arrest of eight suspected terrorists, and the neutralisation of several others.

The upper chamber observed a minute of silence in honour of the fallen officers and urged the Federal Government to ensure the prompt payment of death benefits, pensions, insurance claims, and other entitlements to their families. Lawmakers also called for improved welfare, modern equipment, advanced surveillance technology, and enhanced intelligence capabilities for security personnel.

While applauding the successful rescue operation, the Senate stressed the need to sustain military and intelligence operations against terrorists, kidnappers, bandits, and other criminal groups across the country. It also urged Nigerians to continue supporting security agencies by providing timely and credible intelligence to help combat insecurity.