Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde says his call for a United Nations investigation into the May 15 abduction of schoolchildren and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area was aimed at ensuring accountability and preventing future incidents, not undermining the efforts of security agencies.
The governor made the clarification on Friday in Ibadan while inaugurating an eight-member Judicial Commission of Inquiry to investigate the abduction.
The victims, who were kidnapped from three schools in Yawota and Ahoro-Esiele, were released on July 10 after spending 56 days in captivity following sustained operations by security agencies. Two teachers and several security personnel lost their lives during the incident.
Makinde said the commission was established to uncover the facts surrounding the abduction, identify any institutional or operational lapses, and recommend measures to strengthen the protection of schools and communities.
He said his appeal for an international investigation was intended to ensure that every lesson from the incident was learned.
“It was for this reason that I called on the international community to support an independent examination of the circumstances surrounding the incident,” he said.
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The governor added that the government’s responsibility did not end with the victims’ rescue. “Though rescue brings relief, truth brings closure. This judicial commission of inquiry represents our commitment to that responsibility,” he said.
Makinde charged members of the commission to carry out their assignment with integrity, impartiality, and professionalism.
“Let your work be guided only by the evidence, the law, and the public interest. The people of our state, and indeed Nigerians, expect nothing less than an impartial, credible process,” he said.
The governor gave the commission four weeks to complete its assignment but said it could request more time if necessary to ensure a thorough investigation. He also pledged full government support to enable the panel to work independently and professionally.
Makinde urged individuals, institutions, and relevant agencies to cooperate fully by providing any information that could assist the commission in establishing the facts.
Speaking after the inauguration, the commission’s chairman, retired Justice Mojeed Owoade, pledged that the panel would carry out its assignment with diligence, transparency, and a strong commitment to uncovering the truth.
Other members of the commission are Prof. Jubril Ibrahim, Mrs Ayo Obe, Mrs Ngozi Onadeko, retired Maj. Gen. Sanusi Muazu, Mr Folorunso Osunrayi, and Mrs Olamide Tella, who will serve as the commission’s secretary.
NAN
