Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has called on the United Nations (UN) and international human rights organisations to investigate the abduction of pupils and teachers from Oriire Local Government Area, saying the circumstances surrounding the incident are too serious to be ignored.
Speaking on Monday after receiving the rescued pupils and teachers in Ibadan, Makinde said Nigerians deserve a full, transparent and independent account of what happened. He urged the UN and other international accountability bodies to examine the facts surrounding both the abduction and the rescue operation, stressing that the goal is to establish the truth and ensure that anyone found responsible is held accountable, regardless of their position or influence.
The governor said the responsibility for national security rests with the Federal Government and the security agencies under the Constitution. He added that the probe should determine who was responsible for the abduction, whether there were institutional failures, negligence or collusion, and what measures are being taken to prevent similar incidents in the future.
Makinde maintained that his call for an international investigation is not politically motivated, but aimed at securing justice for the victims, reassuring parents and restoring public confidence in the country’s security system. He also assured residents that his administration would continue supporting every lawful effort to strengthen security and protect schools across Oyo State.
The governor’s remarks came after the military formally handed over the rescued pupils and teachers to the Oyo State Government following 56 days in captivity. Makinde confirmed that the state has taken full responsibility for their welfare, including medical care, psychological support and ensuring that their education and careers are not disrupted.
