State Broadcast: Makinde Seeks UN Intervention, Demands Probe Into Every Link in Oriire Abduction Chain
Governor Seyi Makinde has called for a comprehensive international investigation into the abduction of pupils and teachers from schools in Oriire Local Government Area, declaring that every individual, institution, or group found culpable must be held accountable.
The governor made the declaration on Monday during a statewide broadcast shortly after receiving the rescued teachers and pupils, who were formally handed over to the Oyo State Government following days of medical care and rehabilitation by the Nigerian military.
The victims were abducted from schools in Oriire Local Government Area on May 16, 2026, in an incident that sent shockwaves across Oyo State and the country. After spending 56 days in captivity, they regained their freedom on July 11, 2026, following coordinated rescue efforts by the Nigerian Armed Forces and other security agencies.
In an emotional address, Governor Makinde paid glowing tributes to those who lost their lives during the tragic incident, including victims who died while in captivity, gallant military personnel, local hunters, and operatives of the Oyo State Security Network Agency (Amotekun Corps) who made the ultimate sacrifice during the rescue operation.
The governor described their bravery and patriotism as invaluable, assuring that their sacrifices would never be forgotten.
Speaking on the security concerns surrounding the Old Oyo National Park, Makinde noted that although the Nigerian Constitution places national parks under the control of the Federal Government, his administration would not allow constitutional limitations to prevent it from taking decisive steps to protect the lives and property of Oyo State residents.
He said appropriate measures would henceforth be put in place to strengthen security around the affected areas and prevent a recurrence of such attacks, while sustaining collaboration with federal security agencies.
Governor Makinde also called on the United Nations and other relevant international bodies to carry out a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the abduction.
According to him, every security lapse, operational failure, and the entire network behind the kidnapping must be uncovered, insisting that accountability must be established.
He stressed that any government agency, institution, individual, or group found to have played any role in the incident must be brought to justice.
The governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to strengthening Oyo State’s security architecture through improved intelligence gathering, enhanced collaboration with security agencies, and community-based policing initiatives.
He also urged residents to remain vigilant and support security agencies by reporting suspicious activities through the Oyo State toll-free emergency line, 615.
“Whenever you see something, say something,” the governor urged, emphasizing that timely information from members of the public remains critical to combating insecurity.
Governor Makinde expressed appreciation to the Nigerian Armed Forces, the Department of State Services (DSS), the Nigeria Police Force, Amotekun Corps, local hunters, vigilante groups, and all stakeholders whose coordinated efforts led to the successful rescue of the victims.
He assured the rescued teachers and pupils of the state’s continued support through medical care, psychosocial assistance, and rehabilitation to ensure their full recovery and reintegration into society.
The governor reiterated that the painful Oriire school abduction would mark a turning point in Oyo State’s approach to security, pledging that his administration would continue to take proactive measures to safeguard every community across the state.
