Natasha seeks trauma counselling for rescued Oyo pupils, teachers

Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan has called for comprehensive psychological support and trauma counseling for schoolchildren and teachers rescued after being held captive for over 50 days in Nigeria's Oyo State. The victims, comprising 39 pupils and six teachers, were abducted from schools in the Oriire Local Government Area on May 15 and regained their freedom on July 10 through a military-led operation.

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I commend President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his leadership and steadfast commitment to ensuring the safe rescue of the abducted schoolchildren and teachers. I also appreciate the Nigerian Armed Forces and all the security agencies whose courage, professionalism and sacrifice made this successful operation possible.

During a plenary session, the senator congratulated the rescued individuals and their families, acknowledging the immense relief their return brought to the nation. She specifically commended President Bola Tinubu, the Nigerian Armed Forces, and other security agencies for their leadership, professionalism, and sacrifice in ensuring the successful rescue operation.

While celebrating the safe return of the captives, Akpoti-Uduaghan emphasized that physical freedom is only the first step in recovery. She highlighted the long-lasting emotional and psychological scars that kidnapping survivors often endure. Therefore, she urged the Federal and state governments, in collaboration with relevant agencies, to prioritize mental health support and rehabilitation.

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I also congratulate the rescued schoolchildren, teachers and their families on the successful conclusion of their traumatic ordeal. Their safe return is a great relief to the nation and a testament to the resilience of the victims and the dedication of our security personnel.

The senator stressed the importance of professional counseling and coordinated rehabilitation programs to help the survivors reintegrate into their communities and overcome the trauma of their ordeal. Her appeal underscores the critical need to address the unseen consequences of such violent incidents beyond immediate rescue efforts.

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I call on the Federal Government and state governments, in collaboration with relevant agencies, to ensure the provision of psychological support, trauma counselling and rehabilitation for the rescued victims to facilitate their full recovery from the psychological effects of the kidnapping.