Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has called for an independent international investigation into the abduction of schoolchildren and teachers from Ahoro-Esinle and Yawota communities in Oriire Local Government Area, saying Nigerians deserve to know the full truth behind the incident.
The governor made the appeal during a statewide broadcast on Monday in Ibadan, shortly after receiving the 44 pupils and teachers recently rescued from captivity.
Makinde urged the United Nations and other international human rights and accountability bodies to investigate the circumstances surrounding both the abduction and the rescue operation.
According to him, the incident raises serious concerns that require transparent scrutiny to determine whether there were institutional failures, negligence or possible collusion.
“The reunion of these children and teachers with their families does not mark the end of this painful chapter. It marks the beginning of another responsibility — our collective responsibility to establish the truth,” the governor said.
He stressed that his request was not politically motivated but aimed at delivering justice for the victims, restoring public confidence and ensuring that children can attend school without fear.
While expressing relief over the safe return of the victims, Makinde also mourned those who lost their lives during the tragic incident.
He paid tribute to teacher Joel Adesiyan, who was killed during the attack, as well as Deacon John Olaleye and Michael Oyedokun, who reportedly died while in captivity.
The governor also honoured security personnel and local operatives who lost their lives during rescue efforts, praying for their families and wishing speedy recovery to those injured in the operation.
To strengthen security, Makinde announced plans to tighten surveillance around access routes leading to the Old Oyo National Park, which he said has been exploited by criminal elements.
Although the national park falls under the control of the Federal Government, the governor said Oyo State would improve intelligence gathering, regulate movement around border communities and introduce additional measures to prevent future attacks.
He assured residents that his administration remains committed to making schools and communities safer across the state.
Source: News Agency of Nigeria (NAN).
