IBADAN — Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has called on the United Nations and international human rights organizations to investigate the abduction of school pupils and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area on May 15.The governor made the call on Monday during a broadcast in Ibadan, shortly after receiving the rescued victims in his office.For Makinde, the safe return of the children and their teachers is only the first part of the story. The next, he said, is finding out exactly what happened and ensuring those responsible are held accountable.
“Circumstances Are Grave and Unusual”
Addressing journalists and residents, the governor described the incident as one that raises serious questions.“The circumstances surrounding this incident are sufficiently grave and unusual to warrant independent scrutiny,” Makinde said. He argued that because the abduction involved schoolchildren and teachers, and because of the way it unfolded, Nigerians deserve a transparent, independent review — not just a local account.
International Attention Needed
The governor said he has written to the United Nations and relevant international human rights bodies to request a full investigation into the abduction.According to him, bringing in independent international observers will help establish the facts, identify gaps in security, and recommend measures to prevent a repeat.“We cannot allow this to become another statistic,” he stated. “Our children go to school to learn, not to be taken from their classrooms. The world needs to know what happened here in Oyo State.”
Rescue Not the End of the Story
While commending security agencies for securing the release of the victims, Makinde stressed that rescue alone is not enough.He said the state government will continue to provide medical, psychological, and educational support to the pupils and teachers as they reunite with their families. But beyond welfare, he insisted that justice and answers are also part of the healing process.“Nigerians deserve to know exactly what happened,” the governor said. “And whether anyone, individuals or institutions, should be held accountable.”
Community Reaction
The call for a UN probe has drawn mixed reactions in Ogbomoso and across the state. Many parents and community leaders say an independent investigation will help restore confidence in the safety of schools. Others believe local authorities should be given more time to conclude their own findings first.The abduction on May 15 sparked days of protests and prayers across Oyo State before the victims were freed. Their return on Monday was met with relief, but also renewed calls for stronger protection for schools in rural areas.As of press time, the UN and other international bodies have not officially responded to the governor’s request.The Oyo State Government says it will cooperate fully with any independent investigation that is launched.
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