Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has called for an independent international investigation, including by mechanisms within the United Nations system, into the abduction of pupils and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area.
In a statewide broadcast after the victims regained their freedom, Makinde said the circumstances surrounding the incident were “sufficiently grave and unusual” to warrant scrutiny beyond Nigeria’s domestic institutions.
“I therefore, with a full sense of responsibility as the Executive Governor of Oyo State, call on the appropriate 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 the call was not intended to undermine Nigerian institutions but to strengthen public confidence through accountability.
He added that Nigerians deserved “a full and transparent account” of what happened, whether there were institutional failures, negligence or collusion, and the measures needed to prevent a recurrence.
Makinde also welcomed the safe return of the abducted pupils and teachers, describing it as “a moment of thanksgiving” after weeks of uncertainty.
He, however, mourned teachers, security personnel, hunters and members of the Oyo State Amotekun Corps who lost their lives during the abduction and rescue operations.
The governor announced tighter security around communities bordering the Old Oyo National Park. He said the state would strengthen surveillance, intelligence gathering and collaboration with security agencies to prevent criminal groups from using the area as a hideout or transit route.
