There was widespread outrage in the Senate on Tuesday following reports of the killing of an army general, Brigadier General Samaila Uba, a vice principal, and the abduction of 25 schoolgirls in Kebbi South by armed attackers.
The reaction came after former Senate Leader, Yahaya Abdullahi moved a motion drawing the chamber’s attention to the attack.
The Senate observed a minute of silence in honour of the slain general and vice principal, and urged security agencies to intensify efforts to rescue the abducted students.
The lawmakers also resolved to establish an ad hoc committee to investigate the Federal Government’s Safe School Initiative amid recurring assaults on educational institutions.
In addition, the Senate adjourned plenary until Tuesday, November 25, to allow senators to participate in ongoing security summits being held across the six geopolitical zones.
The resolutions followed the adoption of Abdullahi’s motion, in which he condemned the attack on Government Girls’ Comprehensive Secondary School, Maga, in Danko/Wasagu Local Government Area of Kebbi State, as well as related incidents in Borno State.
Abdullahi stressed the need for urgent action to protect schools and communities from repeated security threats, noting the disturbing impact of such incidents on education and national stability.
“Despite some police presence, which proved insufficient, the terrorists invaded the school, abducting 25 young girls, killing the vice-principal, and wounding the principal. This atrocious act occurred yesterday at about 4 p.m.
“Such kidnapping of schoolgirls is a slap in the face to our nation.
“The continued attacks by terrorist groups on educational institutions not only undermine the quality of education but also discourage parents from sending their children to school.
“Unfortunately, this is not unprecedented. In 2022, a similar attack occurred in another government secondary school in Kebbi, and it took four long years for the girls to be safely recovered.
“I am deeply hurt by this recurring menace. The terrorization of our students, children, and educational institutions must stop immediately.
“Security measures previously taken, including temporary school closures in the affected areas, were not enough to prevent this latest attack.
“I urge the Federal Government and all security agencies to take immediate action to rescue the abducted girls and apprehend the terrorists responsible.
“While we pray for the swift recovery of the wounded principal, I also request this Distinguished Senate to observe a minute of silence in honour of the deceased vice-principal.
“This attack is not only a tragedy for Kebbi State but a wake-up call for the entire nation.
“A country that cannot secure its children cannot fulfill its obligations to its citizens. I appeal to the President and all security agencies to leave no stone unturned in ensuring the safe recovery of the girls and the punishment of the perpetrators.”
He thanked the Senate for suspending the normal order of business to allow him the opportunity to “voice my deep indignation at this atrocity.”
In his contribution, Senator Mohammed Tahir Munguno (Borno North), described the abduction of the 25 school girls as a reprehensible act that demands a strong response from the parliament.
Monguno said, “As representatives entrusted with the mandate of the people, it is our responsibility to condemn such crimes in unison and call for immediate action.
“The security and protection of lives and property is the primary responsibility of the government.
“Citizens surrender part of their sovereignty to the state under a social contract, expecting peace, order, and safety in return.
“I commend Mr. President for immediately directing the military to pursue these terrorists and rescue the girls.
“This Senate must be equally responsive and support this motion without delay, sending a clear message that attacks on our children and educational institutions will not be tolerated.
“Anything short of decisive action will undermine public confidence in government and school enrollment. I fully support this motion.”
Senator Francis Fadahunsi (Osun East) expressed hope that the girls would be released safely, and as quickly as possible, to avoid a repeat of the Chibok tragedy.
He added, “However, this recurring criminality is becoming normalized in our society.
“Security forces – Army, Air Force, and Police – appear to operate in silos, which hinders effective coordination. The rising wave of kidnappings requires collective action from all Nigerians, not just the military, to demand accountability and enforce discipline.
“Clear targets and timelines must be set to eradicate these criminal networks.”
Senator Asuquo Ekpeyong described the incident as a heartbreaking and gut-wrenching tragedy.
“School children, who go to school to learn and develop themselves and their communities, are no longer safe.
“The Senate must pass a resolution that demands decisive action from security agencies, providing all necessary resources, but also setting a clear ultimatum and consequences for failure.
“Protecting the lives and property of our citizens, especially our children, is the primary responsibility of the government.
“We must act effectively and decisively to end the insecurity that has plagued this nation for over a decade,” he said.
Senator Mohammed Sani Musa commended the Armed Forces for their efforts, saying they are overwhelmed.
“With a population exceeding 230 million and only 177,000 personnel, it is impossible to cover every area, especially forests and remote regions.
“We must rethink our approach. Traditional rulers, communities, and individuals must play a proactive role.
“We need to identify and expose those responsible for these crimes, at every level, and ensure accountability.
“Every Nigerian must take the law seriously and partner with the government and security agencies.
“Repeating motions and committees without action has led to repeated tragedies.
“It is time for a collective national effort to secure our children and communities,” he said.
Credit: thenationonlineng.net
