Senate backs state police, urges rescue of abducted children

The Nigerian Senate has formally initiated the constitutional process to establish state police and demanded immediate federal action to rescue dozens of schoolchildren and teachers abducted in Oyo State, as lawmakers confront a nationwide surge in kidnappings and violent attacks.

During a plenary session on Wednesday, the Senate pledged legislative backing for the creation of state-controlled police formations, a move officials said is aimed at strengthening the country's security architecture. Senate spokesperson Yemi Adaramodu stated the legislature is prepared to expedite the process, aligning with President Bola Tinubu's call for urgent reforms. The renewed push follows the May 15 attack in Oyo State, where armed men invaded schools in the Ahoro-Esinle and Yawota communities of Oriire Local Government Area.

That incident, which lawmakers described as a direct assault on the nation's future, resulted in multiple casualties and abductions. Senator Abdulfatai Buhari, who sponsored a motion on the attack, stated that 49 people, including schoolchildren, teachers, and a toddler, were targeted. He said three victims were shot, one teacher was beheaded, and 45 others remain in...