The Senator representing Bauchi Central Senatorial District, Abdul Ningi, has urged the Federal Government and security agencies to ensure the immediate prosecution and public parade of suspects arrested over the abduction of schoolchildren and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State.
Ningi said those implicated in the crime must face the full weight of the law, stressing that swift prosecution would not only deliver justice but also serve as a strong deterrent to others contemplating similar criminal acts.
The lawmaker made the call during plenary at the Senate on Wednesday, where he warned that any unnecessary delay in prosecuting the suspects could erode public confidence in the nation’s criminal justice system.
According to him, the successful rescue of the abducted victims should be followed by decisive legal action against those responsible for the attack.
“What is important going forward now is to take a cue. Now we have people arrested, they must be paraded, prosecuted and let the law take its full course,” Ningi said.
He added, “Delayed prosecution will create another impression that something is wrong.
“I therefore call on the security agencies to prosecute, parade them, and use them as an example.”
The lawmaker’s remarks followed the abduction of pupils and teachers from Baptist Nursery and Primary School, LA Primary School, and Community Grammar School in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State by armed gunmen.
The victims regained their freedom after spending 56 days in captivity following a coordinated rescue operation carried out by a joint team of security operatives.
Security agencies have since confirmed the arrest of several suspects linked to the incident, with investigations and prosecution expected to commence.