Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has called on the United Nations and other international bodies to investigate the abduction of schoolchildren and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area, saying an independent probe is necessary to uncover the truth, identify security lapses, and prevent a recurrence.
Speaking after receiving the rescued pupils and teachers at the Government Secretariat in Ibadan on Monday, Makinde described the circumstances surrounding the incident as “grey and unusual,” insisting they required scrutiny beyond Nigeria’s domestic institutions.
“I therefore, with a full sense of responsibility, as the executive governor of Oyo State, call on the international human rights and accountability mechanisms, including those within the United Nations system, to closely examine the facts surrounding this abduction and the circumstances of its resolution,” he said.
The governor said an independent investigation would help strengthen public confidence, establish the truth, and ensure that anyone found culpable, regardless of status or affiliation, is held accountable.
Makinde maintained that the request was not intended to undermine Nigeria’s institutions but to promote transparency and justice.
He said Nigerians deserve a clear explanation of what transpired, who was responsible, the security or institutional failures that made the abduction possible, and the measures being taken to prevent a repeat.
“This is not about politics. It is about justice for the victims, reassurance for our people, and to restore public confidence that every Nigerian child can go to school without fear,” he said.
Makinde added that true leadership is defined by its willingness to learn from tragedy and strengthen institutions to better protect citizens.
