Makinde Seeks UN Investigation into Oyo School Abduction, Says Nigerians Deserve the Full Truth

Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has called for an independent international investigation into the abduction of pupils and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area, saying the circumstances surrounding the incident are too serious to be ignored.

In a strongly worded statement, the governor appealed to international human rights and accountability bodies, including mechanisms within the United Nations system, to examine the kidnapping and how it eventually came to an end.

According to Makinde, the purpose of seeking international scrutiny is not to discredit Nigeria’s institutions but to ensure that the truth is established and that anyone found responsible is held accountable, regardless of their position or influence.

“The circumstances surrounding this incident are sufficiently grave and unusual to warrant independent scrutiny beyond our domestic institution,” the governor said.

Makinde further stressed that Nigerians deserve a transparent account of what happened from the moment the pupils and teachers were abducted until their release.

He said such an investigation should determine whether there were institutional failures, negligence or any form of collusion that may have contributed to the incident.

The governor also pointed out that the Constitution places the responsibility for national security on the Federal Government and the security agencies under its control, making it necessary for the public to receive a full explanation of the events.

“This is not about politics. It is about justice for the victims, reassurance for our people, and restoring public confidence that every Nigerian child can go to school without fear,” Makinde concluded.

His remarks come amid continued public debate over the circumstances surrounding the release of the abducted pupils and teachers, with different accounts emerging from government officials, security agencies and other commentators.

While the Federal Government and security agencies have maintained that the victims were rescued through a coordinated security operation, some public figures have questioned aspects of the official account.

Makinde’s latest call is expected to intensify discussions about the incident and could increase pressure for a more detailed public explanation of the operation that led to the children’s return.