Makinde Seeks UN Probe into Oyo School Abduction, Announces Security Measures Amid Presidency’s Pushback

Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has formally 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 both the circumstances of the attack and its resolution.

In a statewide broadcast following the victims’ safe return after 56 days in captivity, Makinde announced far‑reaching security measures to protect communities bordering the Old Oyo National Park, including tighter surveillance, regulated movement along access routes, and enhanced collaboration between local communities and security agencies.

The governor emphasised that Nigerians deserve a transparent account of the incident, including whether institutional failures, negligence, or collusion contributed to the prolonged captivity. He clarified that his call for UN involvement was not intended to undermine domestic institutions but to reinforce public confidence in accountability.

Makinde paid tribute to victims who lost their lives, including Joel Adesiyan, Deacon John Olaleye, and Michael Oyedokun, as well as security personnel and members of the Amotekun Corps who died during the rescue mission. He also commended Bamidele Paul, who sustained serious injuries, and thanked residents for their resilience during curfews and restrictions.

Warning that the threat had not disappeared, Makinde urged vigilance and encouraged residents to report suspicious activities via the state’s toll‑free emergency line 615. He pledged to strengthen intelligence gathering, regulate border corridors adjoining the national park, and deploy lawful measures to safeguard lives and property, notwithstanding federal control of national parks.

Hours after the broadcast, the Presidency criticised Makinde’s call for a UN‑led probe, describing it as politically motivated. Presidential adviser Bayo Onanuga argued that no security agency would deliberately allow children to remain in captivity for 56 days, stressing that the rescue operation came at a heavy cost, with lives lost among soldiers and Amotekun operatives. He accused Makinde, whom he described as a presidential aspirant, of politicising the tragedy.

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