Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has urged the United Nations and international human rights bodies to investigate the abduction of schoolchildren and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area, describing the incident as “grave and unusual” and demanding independent scrutiny beyond Nigeria’s domestic institutions.
Makinde Calls on UN to Probe Oyo Schoolchildren Abduction
Governor Seyi Makinde’s appeal to the United Nations marks a significant escalation in Nigeria’s struggle against insecurity, particularly the targeting of schools by armed groups.
On May 15, 2026, heavily armed gunmen attacked schools in Ahoro-Esiele and Yawota communities of Oriire LGA, abducting 39 pupils and six teachers. Tragically, one teacher was killed during the attack, and another died in captivity during the victims’ 56 days of abduction.
Rescue and
Aftermath
The victims were rescued through a coordinated military operation involving the Nigerian Army, police, DSS, Amotekun, hunters, and vigilantes. They were handed over to the Oyo State Government after receiving medical care at the 2 Division Medical Centre in Ibadan. Governor Makinde emphasized that while their release was a relief, the ordeal left deep scars: “What they went through in 56 days cannot be undone in 56 months.”
Call for
International Scrutiny
Makinde’s demand for UN involvement stems from his belief that the circumstances surrounding the abduction were unusual and potentially indicative of institutional failures or collusion.
He stressed that the probe was not politically motivated but aimed at ensuring accountability and restoring public confidence. He insisted Nigerians deserve a transparent account of what happened, who was responsible, and what measures will prevent recurrence.
Political
Undertones
The timing of the abduction has raised eyebrows. Makinde had declared his intention to contest the 2027 presidential election under the Action People’s Movement (APM) just hours before the attack.
While he insists his call for UN intervention is not political, the coincidence has fueled speculation about whether the abduction was orchestrated to undermine his ambitions.
Security and
Accountability
Makinde reminded the Federal Government of its constitutional responsibility for national security, stressing that the incident highlighted vulnerabilities in Nigeria’s security architecture.
He announced tighter surveillance around communities bordering the Old Oyo National Park to prevent criminal groups from using the area as a hideout.
Human Cost
Beyond the rescued victims, the abduction and rescue operations claimed the lives of teachers, soldiers, Amotekun operatives, and local hunters.
Makinde mourned their sacrifice, framing the tragedy as a reminder of the urgent need to secure Nigeria’s schools and communities.
Governor Makinde’s appeal to the UN underscores the gravity of Nigeria’s insecurity crisis and the erosion of public trust in domestic institutions. His insistence on international scrutiny reflects both the scale of the tragedy and the political sensitivities surrounding it.
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