The Presidency and opposition political parties have taken opposing positions on Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde’s request for a United Nations-backed investigation into the abduction of pupils and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area. While the Presidency dismissed the demand as unnecessary and politically motivated, several opposition parties argued that an independent investigation would strengthen accountability and public confidence.
Makinde made the call on Monday while formally receiving the 39 pupils and six teachers rescued after spending 56 days in captivity. He said Nigerians deserved a transparent account of the circumstances surrounding the abduction and rescue, insisting that an international review would reinforce public trust rather than undermine Nigeria’s institutions.
Reacting, the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, said the governor’s position suggested a lack of confidence in the country’s security agencies. He maintained that the military and other security organisations had already explained the rescue operation and questioned the need for external involvement.
Onanuga argued that security personnel had paid a heavy price during the operation, with soldiers and other operatives losing their lives while pursuing the abductors. He described Makinde’s request as politically motivated, accusing the governor of attempting to weaponise the incident because of his presidential ambition.
Despite the Presidency’s position, the Nigeria Democratic Congress, All Progressives Grand Alliance, Social Democratic Party and Young Progressives Party supported Makinde’s call, saying an independent investigation would help uncover the truth, ensure justice for victims and improve confidence in Nigeria’s security response.
The Labour Party, however, disagreed with the governor, insisting that the investigation should remain within Nigeria’s security institutions. Its National Publicity Secretary, Ken Asogwa, argued that involving the United Nations in a domestic security matter could raise concerns about the country’s sovereignty and urged Makinde to push the DSS and the police to conduct a comprehensive probe instead.
Meanwhile, the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Akeem Owoade, visited the rescued pupils and teachers in Ibadan, commending the Nigerian Army and other security agencies for their efforts in securing the victims’ release. The monarch also donated cash to the victims and praised traditional rulers for their roles in supporting efforts that led to the successful rescue.
