Oriire School Kidnapping: Makinde Gives Fresh Reason for Seeking UN Probe

Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has explained why he called for an international investigation into the mass abduction of pupils and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area.

According to the Governor, the move is aimed at uncovering the full truth behind the incident and preventing a repeat of such attacks.

The governor spoke on Friday in Ibadan during the inauguration of an eight-member Judicial Commission of Inquiry set up to investigate the kidnapping of dozens of school children and their teachers from communities in Oriire LGA earlier this year.

The abduction, which occurred on May 15, 2026, shocked residents of Oyo State and sparked nationwide concern over the security of schools.

A total of 44 pupils and teachers were taken from schools located in Yawota and Ahoro-Esiele communities.

The victims eventually regained their freedom on July 10 after spending 56 days in captivity.

Speaking at the inauguration ceremony, Makinde said his call for support from the international community, including the United Nations, should not be interpreted as a criticism of the efforts made by Nigerian security agencies during the rescue operation.

According to him, the demand for an independent examination of the incident was driven by the need for accountability and lasting reforms.

The governor said the state government owes citizens a responsibility to fully understand how the incident happened and what can be done to strengthen security around schools and vulnerable communities.

Makinde stated that accountability remains a key part of restoring public trust after such a traumatic event.

He said: “So it was for this reason that I called on the international community to support an independent examination of the circumstances surrounding the incident.”

The governor stressed that the objective was not to assign blame but to ensure that every lesson from the tragedy is properly identified and acted upon.

According to him, “ensuring that every lesson is learnt, and every question that deserves an answer is answered” remains the guiding principle behind the decision.

Makinde noted that while the successful rescue of the victims brought relief to families and residents, it was equally important to establish the facts surrounding the incident.

He said: “Though rescue brings relief, but truth brings closure.

“This judicial commission of inquiry represents our commitment to that responsibility.”

The governor explained that the commission has been mandated to examine the circumstances that led to the attack, identify possible institutional weaknesses, and make recommendations that would strengthen security arrangements across the state.

He said the panel would also determine whether there were operational failures before, during or after the kidnapping and propose measures to prevent similar occurrences in the future.

“And help to ensure that such a tragedy never happens again,” Makinde added.

The governor reminded members of the commission of the importance of the assignment before them, urging them to conduct their work with fairness, professionalism and independence.

He charged the panelists to rely solely on facts, evidence and the law while carrying out their responsibilities.

“The people of our state, and indeed Nigerians, expect nothing less than an impartial, credible process,” he said.

Makinde gave the commission an initial period of four weeks to submit its findings but assured members that his administration would consider requests for additional time if necessary.

He urged the panel not to rush its work at the expense of thoroughness.

According to him, the goal is to ensure that every relevant detail is examined and that no critical issue is overlooked during the investigation.

The governor also pledged the full support of the state government, promising that the commission would be allowed to operate independently without interference.

He further appealed to individuals, government institutions and security agencies with useful information to cooperate fully with the panel.

Makinde said public participation would be vital in helping the commission establish the truth and make recommendations capable of improving security across the state.

The kidnapping incident drew widespread attention after reports emerged that dozens of school children and teachers had been taken by armed abductors.

Security agencies, including the Nigerian Army, the Police, the Department of State Services (DSS), the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), and other operatives, subsequently launched coordinated operations aimed at securing the victims’ release.

The rescue efforts, however, came at a cost. Two teachers and some security personnel reportedly lost their lives during the prolonged crisis.

Speaking with journalists after the inauguration ceremony, Chairman of the commission, retired Justice Mojeed Owoade, assured residents that the panel would carry out its responsibilities diligently.

Owoade said members of the commission were fully aware of the expectations placed on them and would work towards uncovering the truth behind the incident.

He pledged that transparency, fairness and diligence would guide the activities of the panel throughout its assignment.

Other members of the commission include Prof. Jubril Ibrahim, Ayo Obe, Ngozi Onadeko, retired Major General Sanusi Muazu, Folorunso Osunrayi and Olamide Tella, who will serve as secretary.