Oyo Governor Calls for UN Investigation into School Kidnapping Case

Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has said that calling on the United Nations to look into the abduction of school children and teachers on May 15 in Oriire Local Government Area does not take away from the work of security agencies.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that 44 teachers and students were kidnapped from three schools in Yawota and Ahoro-Esinele in Oriire LGA. They were freed on July 10 after spending 56 days in captivity.

The kidnappers released the victims after strong pressure from security agencies like the Nigerian Army, Police, the State Security Service (SSS), and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps.

Sadly, two teachers and some security officers lost their lives during the ordeal.

Speaking on Friday in Ibadan, Oyo State's capital, at the launch of an 8-man Judicial Commission of Inquiry into the abduction, Makinde stated that accountability and reform are key to restoring public trust and preventing future incidents.

He said, "My call is about ensuring that every lesson is learnt, and every question that deserves an answer is answered."

He added that the government's responsibility does not end with the victims' rescue. "Though rescue brings relief, truth brings closure," he noted.

Makinde explained that the commission's job is to find out what happened, identify any failures, and suggest ways to improve safety in schools and communities.

He emphasized that this will help to ensure such a tragedy never occurs again.

The governor had reached out to the United Nations and other international human rights bodies to review the facts surrounding the abduction of the schoolchildren and teachers in Oriire.

He pointed out that while the victims are free now, the situation was "sufficiently grave and unusual" to need an outside look.

Makinde mentioned that the incident raised serious questions that need an independent examination beyond what Nigeria's local institutions can provide.

He made this request in a state broadcast shortly after the military handed over the rescued pupils and teachers to the state government.

The Oyo State House of Assembly supported Makinde's call for an independent international investigation into the kidnapping.

But the Nigerian Senate turned down the governor's request for foreign help, saying it is a domestic security issue that Nigeria should handle.

At the launch of the inquiry on Friday, Makinde urged all commission members to use their years of experience, integrity, and public service in their work.

He told them to ensure their findings are based only on evidence, the law, and the public good.

"The people of our state, and all Nigerians, expect nothing less than a fair and trustworthy process," he said.

The governor gave the commission four weeks to finish their work and encouraged them to ask for more time if needed to make sure "no stone is left unturned."

He promised to provide all the support needed for the commission to operate independently and professionally.

Makinde also urged individuals, groups, and agencies to cooperate fully by sharing any information that could help the commission uncover the truth.

After the launch, the commission's chairman, retired Justice Mojeed Owoade, assured that the commission would perform its duties responsibly.

Justice Owoade added that transparency and diligence would guide the commission as they seek the truth.