Makinde Seeks UN Probe into Ogbomoso Pupils’ Abduction, Vows Stronger Security

Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has called for an independent investigation by the United Nations into the abduction of pupils and teachers from communities in Oriire Local Government Area, even as he pledged to strengthen security around settlements bordering the Old Oyo National Park.

The governor made the call on Monday in a statewide broadcast following the release of the abducted pupils and teachers from Ahoro-Esinle and Yawota communities, describing their return as a huge relief after weeks of anxiety for their families and the state.

While expressing gratitude over the safe return of the victims, Makinde said the state was still grieving those who lost their lives during the attack and subsequent rescue operations.

“Today, our hearts are filled with immense relief as the children and teachers abducted from the Ahoro-Esinle and Yawota communities in Oriire Local Government Area have finally been reunited with their families.

“For every parent who endured weeks of uncertainty, every child who lived through this traumatic experience, and every citizen who prayed and hoped for their safe return, this is indeed a moment of thanksgiving,” he said.

The governor, however, paid tribute to those who died during the incident, saying their sacrifices would never be forgotten.

He identified the deceased teachers as Mr. Joel Adesiyan, who was killed on the school premises on the day of the attack, and Deacon John Olaleye, who died while in captivity.

Makinde also recalled the killing of another teacher, Mr. Michael Oyedokun, whose death drew national attention after a video of the incident circulated online.

He further honoured security personnel, hunters and members of the Oyo State Amotekun Corps who lost their lives during efforts to rescue the victims. Those he named included Lieutenant F. A. Isaac, Mr. Adigun Saibu, Mr. Isa Saliu, Mr. Rafiu Ayuba and an unnamed soldier.

“We will never forget security personnel, hunters and members of the Oyo State Amotekun Corps who paid the ultimate price in the line of duty,” he said, while praying for the repose of their souls and strength for their families.

Makinde also wished Mr. Bamidele Paul, who sustained serious injuries during the operation, a speedy recovery.

The governor commended residents of the affected communities and other parts of the state for their patience and cooperation throughout the rescue efforts, particularly those who endured movement restrictions and curfews imposed to facilitate security operations.

He cautioned that the successful rescue should not create a false sense of security, warning that criminal groups could attempt further attacks if vigilance wanes.

“The threat posed by criminal elements has not disappeared. Experience from other parts of our country has shown that terrorist and bandit groups often seek to strike again where they perceive vulnerability. We must therefore not allow this moment of relief to become a moment of complacency,” he said.

Makinde urged residents to promptly report suspicious movements to security agencies and encouraged them to use the state’s toll-free emergency number, 615, to report security and other emergencies.

As part of measures to forestall future attacks, the governor announced plans to tighten surveillance around all access routes connecting communities to the Old Oyo National Park.

Although the national park is under the control of the Federal Government, he said the state could not ignore the security of communities located around it.

According to him, the government will strengthen intelligence gathering, regulate movement through adjoining corridors, deepen collaboration with security agencies and local communities, and introduce new operational measures to stop criminal groups from using the area as hideouts or transit routes.

He added that detailed implementation plans for the new security measures would be unveiled in the coming days.

Makinde also called for an independent international investigation into the abduction, saying the circumstances surrounding the incident deserved 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 explained that his call was not intended to undermine Nigeria’s security institutions but to reinforce public confidence through a transparent process that would establish the facts and ensure accountability.

He noted that responsibility for national security rests with the Federal Government and its security agencies, insisting that Nigerians deserve to know exactly what transpired.

“The Nigerian people deserve a full and transparent account of what happened, who was responsible, whether there were institutional failures, negligence or collusion at any level, and what measures must now be taken to ensure that no community is ever subjected to such an ordeal again,” he said.

Describing the issue as one of justice rather than politics, Makinde assured parents that his administration would continue to prioritise the safety of schools and communities across the state.

He reaffirmed his government’s commitment to strengthening Oyo’s security architecture and supporting every lawful effort to bring those responsible for the tragedy to justice.