Makinde Seeks UN Probe into Oriire School Abduction

…Vows Stronger Security Measures

Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has called on the United Nations (UN) and international human rights organisations to investigate the abduction of schoolchildren and teachers from Ahoro-Esinle and Yawota communities in Oriire Local Government Area, describing the incident as one that deserves international scrutiny.

In a statewide broadcast following the release of the victims, Makinde expressed gratitude for their safe return but said the state remained in mourning over those who lost their lives during the tragic incident.

He described the reunion of the rescued children and teachers with their families as a moment of relief after weeks of fear and uncertainty.

“Today, our hearts are filled with immense relief as the children and teachers abducted from the Ahoro-Esinle and Yawota communities have finally been reunited with their families. For every parent who endured weeks of uncertainty and every citizen who prayed for their safe return, this is indeed a moment of thanksgiving,” the governor said.

Makinde paid tribute to those who died during the abduction and rescue efforts, including teachers Mr. Joel Adesiyan, who was killed during the attack on the school, Deacon John Olaleye, who died in captivity, and Mr. Michael Oyedokun, whose killing attracted nationwide attention after a video of the incident circulated online.

He also honoured security operatives, local hunters and members of the Oyo State Amotekun Corps who lost their lives while participating in the rescue mission. Those recognised include Lieutenant F.A. Isaac, Adigun Saibu, Isa Saliu, Rafiu Ayuba and an unnamed soldier. Makinde also wished Mr. Bamidele Paul, who sustained injuries during the operation, a speedy recovery.

The governor thanked residents for their patience and cooperation throughout the rescue efforts, particularly communities affected by security restrictions and curfews imposed during the operation.

While celebrating the successful rescue, Makinde warned that the threat posed by criminal groups remained and urged residents to remain vigilant by reporting suspicious activities to security agencies and using the state’s toll-free emergency number, 615.

To strengthen security, he announced plans to tighten surveillance along access routes leading to the Old Oyo National Park, improve intelligence gathering, enhance collaboration with security agencies and host communities, and introduce new operational measures to prevent criminal groups from using border communities as safe havens.
Makinde said detailed implementation guidelines for the new security measures would be announced soon.

The governor also appealed for an independent international investigation into the abduction, insisting that the incident warranted examination beyond Nigeria’s domestic institutions.

According to him, the probe would help establish the facts, determine whether there were institutional failures, negligence or collusion, and ensure those responsible are held accountable.

He stressed that the request was not intended to undermine Nigeria’s security institutions but to strengthen public confidence through transparency.
Makinde noted that responsibility for national security rests with the Federal Government and maintained that Nigerians deserve a full account of what transpired and the steps being taken to prevent a recurrence.

Describing the issue as one of justice rather than politics, the governor assured parents that his administration would continue to prioritise the safety of schools and communities while strengthening Oyo State’s security architecture and supporting efforts to bring those responsible for the tragedy to justice.