The Senate has approved a ₦50 million support package for the families of five individuals who lost their lives during the rescue operation that secured the freedom of abducted schoolchildren in Oyo State.

The announcement was made by Senate President Godswill Akpabio during plenary, where he commended the efforts of security agencies and the Federal Government in ensuring the safe release of the children.

According to Akpabio, those who died in the operation included a 28-year-old Army lieutenant from Adamawa State, a police sergeant, another soldier, and two teachers who were being held captive alongside the abducted pupils. He added that several other security personnel sustained injuries during the mission.

The Senate President described the fallen personnel and teachers as heroes whose sacrifices contributed to the successful rescue of the children.

He disclosed that the Senate had resolved to provide financial support to the bereaved families, allocating ₦10 million to each of the five families.

“We want to also support the victims’ families. The young lieutenant was just 28 years old when he died in that operation. We are sending a token of ₦50 million to be divided among the five deceased families — ₦10 million each to the families of the two teachers and the three operatives who lost their lives, on behalf of the Senate,” Akpabio stated.

The Senate also applauded the Federal Government and security agencies for their efforts in combating insecurity and rescuing victims of abduction. Lawmakers further urged authorities to intensify operations aimed at securing the release of other Nigerians still being held captive across the country.

The proposal for the support package was subsequently put to a voice vote during plenary and received unanimous approval from members of the Senate.

The gesture is seen as a recognition of the sacrifices made by security personnel and civilians who lost their lives in the line of duty and in the course of efforts to protect innocent Nigerians.