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By Oluseye Ojo
Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has called for an independent international investigation into the abduction of pupils and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area, urging relevant United Nations human rights and accountability mechanisms to scrutinise the circumstances surrounding the attack and its eventual resolution.
In a statewide broadcast yesterday following the safe return of the victims after 56 days in captivity, the governor also announced far-reaching security measures aimed at protecting communities bordering the Old Oyo National Park from future attacks.
Makinde said the state government would immediately strengthen surveillance and regulate movement along access routes into and out of the forest to prevent criminal groups from exploiting the area as a hideout.
He maintained that Nigerians deserved a full and transparent account of the incident, including whether institutional failures, negligence or collusion contributed to the attack.
“The circumstances surrounding this incident are sufficiently grave and unusual to warrant independent scrutiny beyond our domestic institutions.
“I therefore 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 stressed that the call was not intended to undermine Nigeria’s institutions but to reinforce public confidence that the truth would emerge and that anyone found culpable, regardless of status or affiliation, would be held accountable.
“This is not about politics. It is about justice for the victims, reassurance for our people, and restoring public confidence that every Nigerian child can go to school without fear,” he added.
While expressing gratitude over the safe return of the abducted pupils and teachers, Makinde described the development as a moment of thanksgiving for Oyo State, noting, however, that the joy was tempered by the painful loss of lives during the incident.
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He paid tribute to Joel Adesiyan, who was killed during the attack on the school premises; Deacon John Olaleye, who died in captivity; and Michael Oyedokun, whose gruesome killing by the abductors was recorded in a video that shocked many Nigerians.
The governor also honoured security personnel, hunters and operatives of the Oyo State Amotekun Corps who lost their lives during the rescue mission. Those recognised included Lieutenant F. A. Isaac, Adigun Saibu, Isa Saliu, Rafiu Ayuba and an unnamed soldier.
He further commended Bamidele Paul, who sustained serious injuries during the operation and is currently receiving treatment, praying for his speedy recovery.
Makinde thanked residents of the state for their patience, cooperation and resilience throughout the weeks of uncertainty, particularly those affected by security restrictions and curfews imposed during the rescue operation.
Warning that the security threat had not completely disappeared, the governor urged residents to remain vigilant, noting that terrorist and bandit groups often attempt to strike repeatedly where they perceive weakness.
He advised members of the public to promptly report suspicious movements and activities to security agencies or through the state’s toll-free emergency line, 615.
To strengthen security around vulnerable communities, Makinde announced plans to improve intelligence gathering, deepen collaboration between local communities and security agencies, regulate movement through border corridors adjoining the Old Oyo National Park, and introduce new operational protocols to deny criminal groups safe passage and operational bases.
He acknowledged that national parks fall under the constitutional control of the Federal Government but insisted that the arrangement would not prevent his administration from deploying every lawful measure within its powers to safeguard lives and property across Oyo State.
The governor assured parents that his administration had heard their concerns and would continue to support every lawful initiative aimed at strengthening the state’s security architecture, protecting lives and ensuring that all those responsible for the tragedy are brought to justice.
Makinde’s broadcast came hours after the Nigerian military formally handed over the rescued pupils and teachers to the Oyo State Government following medical treatment and psychological evaluation at the Headquarters, 2 Division Nigerian Army Medical Services, Ibadan.
