The Senate on Wednesday, July 15, approved a ₦50 million donation to the families of five Nigerians who lost their lives during the rescue operation that freed schoolchildren abducted in Oyo State after 56 days in captivity.
The resolution followed a proposal during plenary. Senators unanimously endorsed the donation, with each of the five bereaved families to receive ₦10 million.
The Senate had on Tuesday commended the nation’s security agencies for the successful rescue of the abducted pupils and their teachers. Although the rescue mission was successful, it came at a significant cost with the loss of security personnel and teachers.
The deceased security personnel 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 two teachers who died in captivity were identified as Deacon John Olaleye and Michael Oyedokun.
“In appreciation of their sacrifice, the Senate has resolved to donate ₦50 million to be shared equally among the five bereaved families,” the Senate President said. He explained that each family would receive ₦10 million to assist the dependants of the deceased.
The proposal was adopted through a voice vote, with senators unanimously supporting the donation. The Senate leadership has been directed to present the cheques to the affected families on behalf of the upper legislative chamber.