Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has explained the rationale behind his call on the United Nations (UN) and other international human rights and accountability organisations to investigate the abduction of pupils and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area of the state.
The governor said the request was aimed at ensuring an independent investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident, identifying those responsible, and strengthening measures to prevent similar attacks on schools and vulnerable communities.
Speaking during an engagement on the tragic incident, Makinde noted that while security agencies worked tirelessly to secure the release of the victims, it was equally important to establish the facts surrounding the kidnapping and hold all perpetrators accountable.
According to him, involving international bodies would enhance transparency, promote global attention to the security challenges affecting schools, and reinforce Nigeria’s commitment to protecting the rights of children and ensuring access to safe education.
Makinde stressed that the abduction, which kept dozens of pupils and teachers in captivity for several weeks before their eventual rescue, should not be treated as an isolated incident but as a matter requiring comprehensive scrutiny and lasting solutions.
He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to improving security across Oyo State through sustained collaboration with the military, police, other security agencies, local communities, and intelligence networks.
The governor also appreciated President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Chief of Defence Staff, security operatives, local vigilantes, and all stakeholders whose coordinated efforts contributed to the successful rescue of the victims.
Makinde assured residents that his government would continue investing in security infrastructure, intelligence gathering, and community policing initiatives to safeguard lives and property across the state.
He urged citizens to remain vigilant, cooperate with security agencies by providing credible information, and support ongoing efforts to combat kidnapping and other criminal activities.
The governor’s remarks come in the wake of the successful rescue of pupils and teachers abducted from Oriire Local Government Area, an incident that sparked widespread concern across Oyo State and the country. A video of his explanation has since generated significant public discussion on social media.