By Daily Review
Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has called for an independent investigation by the United Nations and other international accountability bodies into the May 14 abduction of pupils and teachers from Ahoro-Esinle and Yawota communities in Oriire Local Government Area.
Makinde made the appeal on Monday during a statewide broadcast in Ibadan after receiving the 44 pupils and teachers recently rescued from their abductors.
The governor said the circumstances surrounding the abduction were serious enough to warrant an independent inquiry, stressing that such an investigation would help establish the truth and restore public confidence.
According to him, Nigerians deserve a transparent account of the incident, including whether institutional failures, negligence or collusion contributed to the attack.
“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,” he said.
Makinde emphasised that his call was driven by the pursuit of justice rather than politics, noting that the victims deserved accountability while Nigerians needed reassurance that schools could remain safe learning environments.
He assured the rescued teachers, pupils and their families that the state government would continue taking lawful measures to improve security in schools and communities across Oyo State.
Describing the victims’ return as a moment of great relief, the governor thanked residents for their patience, resilience and cooperation throughout the rescue operation, which involved heightened security measures and curfews.
However, he lamented the loss of several victims during the ordeal, including teacher Joel Adesiyan, who was killed during the attack on the school, as well as Deacon John Olaleye and Michael Oyedokun, who died while in captivity.
Makinde also paid tribute to security personnel who lost their lives during rescue efforts, including Lt. F.A. Isaac, Adigun Saibu, Isa Saliu, Rafiu Ayuba and an unnamed soldier attached to the Oyo State Amotekun Corps and supporting hunters. He also acknowledged Bamidele Paul, who sustained serious injuries and is receiving medical treatment.
To strengthen security, the governor announced plans to tighten surveillance on access routes into and out of the Old Oyo National Park through adjoining local government areas. Although the national park is under federal control, he said the state would introduce measures to regulate movement, improve intelligence gathering in border communities and prevent criminals from using the area as a safe haven