The Senate has cautioned Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde over his call for a United Nations-led investigation into the abduction of pupils and teachers in Oyo State, warning that such statements could undermine ongoing efforts by the Federal Government and security agencies to combat terrorism and kidnapping.
Makinde, while assuming responsibility for the welfare, rehabilitation and education of the 45 victims rescued after spending 56 days in captivity, said Nigerians deserved a full account of the incident and insisted his call for international scrutiny was aimed at ensuring accountability, not discrediting Nigerian institutions.
Armed bandits attacked three schools in Yawota and Ahoro Esienle communities in Oriire Local Government Area on May 15, 2026, abducting 39 pupils and six teachers. During Tuesday’s plenary, the Senate adopted resolutions following a motion by Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele, commending the Armed Forces, intelligence agencies and President Bola Tinubu for securing the victims’ release on July 10. Lawmakers said the operation led to the arrest of eight suspected terrorists, the killing of several others, and demonstrated improved inter-agency collaboration.
The Senate, however, mourned Lieutenant F.A. Isaac, Private Silas Musa and Sergeant Abena John Jerome, who died during the operation, while recognising the injuries sustained by Lance Corporal Adamu Hussain. Lawmakers also expressed sadness over the death of one abducted teacher in captivity and urged the Federal Government to promptly pay the benefits of fallen personnel and strengthen the welfare, equipment, training and operational capacity of security agencies.
Meanwhile, the House of Representatives has withdrawn its proposed constitutional amendment on state police and will instead consider a similar Executive-sponsored bill. The measure received first and second readings on Tuesday before being referred to the House Committee on Constitutional Review for further legislative consideration.
In the United States, President Donald Trump announced a 20% cargo fee on all shipments passing through the Strait of Hormuz, saying it would cover the cost of securing one of the world’s busiest shipping routes. In a Truth Social post, Trump declared the waterway would remain open and announced the reinstatement of what he called the “Iranian blockade.”
The announcement comes amid weakening ceasefire efforts between the United States and Iran. The conflict has disrupted traffic through the Strait of Hormuz, which previously handled about 20% of global oil supplies. Following Trump’s announcement, Brent crude rose above $80 per barrel, West Texas Intermediate traded around $75, and major US stock indexes declined amid concerns over prolonged tensions and inflation.
Also on Tuesday, former Kaduna Central Senator Shehu Sani urged members of the 10th National Assembly to prioritise principle over politics, saying history would judge lawmakers by the positions they take on sensitive national issues rather than the number of bills they sponsor or oversight functions they perform. Speaking during the National Assembly Open Week in Abuja, Sani also encouraged Nigerians to defend the country’s reputation whenever it is unfairly portrayed abroad.
