Natasha Akpoti Urges Trauma Support for Rescued Pupils

Natasha Akpoti Uduaghan, a senator representing Kogi Central, urged the federal and state governments to provide psychological support and trauma counseling for the 39 pupils and six teachers rescued from captivity in Oyo State. The victims were abducted on May 15, 2026, during an armed bandit attack on three schools in the Oriir Local Government Area and regained their freedom on July 10 after spending 50 days in captivity.

During a plenary session, Akpoti Uduaghan commended President Bola Tinubu and the Nigerian Armed Forces for their efforts in the successful rescue operation. She stressed the importance of addressing the emotional and psychological effects of prolonged captivity and called for collaboration among relevant agencies to ensure the provision of mental health support for the survivors.

Akpoti Uduaghan also paid tribute to the abducted teachers and their families, highlighting the need for improved welfare and training for security personnel involved in such operations.