Senator Natasha Congratulates Rescued Oyo Victims, Calls For Trauma Support

Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central Senatorial District, has congratulated the rescued schoolchildren, teachers and their families following their release after more than 50 days in captivity in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State.

The lawmaker, while contributing to a motion on the successful rescue operation during Tuesday’s Senate plenary, called on the Federal and state governments to provide psychological support, trauma counselling and rehabilitation for the victims to aid their recovery.

Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan commended President Bola Tinubu, the Nigerian Armed Forces and other security agencies for what she described as their leadership, courage and professionalism in securing the freedom of the abducted victims.

“I commend President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his leadership and steadfast commitment to ensuring the safe rescue of the abducted schoolchildren and teachers. I also appreciate the Nigerian Armed Forces and all the security agencies whose courage, professionalism and sacrifice made this successful operation possible,” she said.

The Kogi Central senator described the safe return of the victims as a source of relief and hope for Nigerians, while praising the resilience of the rescued children and teachers.

“I congratulate the rescued schoolchildren, teachers and their families on the successful conclusion of their traumatic ordeal. Their safe return is a great relief to the nation and a testament to the resilience of the victims and the dedication of our security personnel,” she added.

However, she stressed that the rescue operation should not mark the end of government support for the victims, noting that survivors of abduction often suffer psychological effects that require long-term intervention.

Akpoti-Uduaghan urged the Federal Government, state governments and relevant agencies to provide comprehensive mental health care, counselling and rehabilitation programmes for the rescued pupils and teachers.

“I call on the Federal Government and state governments, in collaboration with relevant agencies, to ensure the provision of psychological support, trauma counselling and rehabilitation for the rescued victims to facilitate their full recovery from the psychological effects of the kidnapping,” she said.

The senator noted that beyond physical safety, survivors require structured support to help them return to their families, schools and communities.

She also paid tribute to the teacher who died during the period of captivity, praying for the peaceful repose of his soul and extending condolences to his family.

“While we celebrate the successful rescue of the victims, we must not forget the teacher who paid the ultimate price. I pray for the peaceful repose of his soul and extend my heartfelt condolences to his family,” she said.

The Senate later adopted the motion commending President Tinubu, the Armed Forces and other security agencies for the successful rescue operation.