Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan advocates for trauma counseling for rescued Oyo pupils and teachers

The victims were abducted on May 15, 2026, by armed bandits from three schools in Yawota and Ahoro Esienle communities and were freed on July 10 after more than 50 days. Speaking during a plenary session, Akpoti-Uduaghan commended President Bola Tinubu, the Nigerian Armed Forces, and other security agencies for their role in the successful rescue operation. She emphasized that the victims' recovery should extend beyond their physical freedom, highlighting that survivors of kidnapping often carry emotional and psychological scars.

The senator called for professional counseling and coordinated rehabilitation to help them reintegrate into their families, schools, and communities. She also paid tribute to a teacher who died during captivity. The Senate subsequently adopted a motion commending the rescue efforts, paying tribute to security personnel, and urging intensified operations against criminal groups, improved welfare for security personnel, and sustained efforts to secure the release of other Nigerians still held captive.