Senate on Wednesday approved a N50 million donation to the families of five Nigerians who lost their lives during the rescue operation that freed abducted schoolchildren and their teachers in Oyo State after 56 days in captivity.
The resolution followed a proposal presented during plenary, which was unanimously endorsed by senators.
Under the arrangement, each of the five bereaved families will receive N10 million to support the dependants of the deceased.
The Senate had on Tuesday commended the nation’s security agencies for the successful rescue of the abducted pupils and their teachers, while acknowledging the sacrifices made by security personnel and civilians involved in the operation.
The rescue mission, though successful, resulted in the death of three security personnel and two teachers.
The deceased security personnel were identified as Lt. F. A. Isaac of the Nigerian Army, Private Silas Musa of the 81 Battalion, Nigerian Army, and Sgt. Abena John Jerome of the Nigeria Police Force.
The two teachers who died while in captivity were identified as Deacon John Olaleye and Michael Oyedokun.
Presenting the resolution, the Senate President said the donation was in recognition of the sacrifices made by the deceased in ensuring the safe return of the abducted pupils and teachers.
He said the N50 million would be shared equally among the families, with each receiving N10 million to assist their dependants.
The proposal was adopted through a voice vote, with all senators supporting the gesture.
The Senate leadership was mandated to present the cheques to the affected families on behalf of the upper legislative chamber.
