Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has received the report of the Judicial Commission of Inquiry into the abduction of pupils and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area. The commission, headed by retired Justice of the Court of Appeal, Prof. Mojeed Owoade, was constituted to establish facts surrounding the May 15, 2026 abduction incident. Makinde assured that his administration would publicly respond to the recommendations and implement measures to prevent a recurrence. The governor emphasized that confidentiality would not be used to shield accountability.
The abduction incident occurred in Esinele and Yawota communities in Oriire Local Government Area, with pupils and teachers from schools being taken. Makinde described the incident as an attack on the right of every Nigerian child to learn in safety. The state government inaugurated the commission on July 31, 2026, to examine circumstances that led to the abduction and identify possible institutional or operational lapses. The commission's mandate also included recommending preventive measures to strengthen security around schools and vulnerable communities.
The commission heard from 72 witnesses, visited the affected communities and the Old Oyo National Park where the victims were held, and received memoranda from stakeholders. The panel's chairman, Prof. Owoade, led a team that included Prof. Jibril Ibrahim, human rights lawyer Mrs. Ayo Obe, retired Assistant Inspector-General of Police Ngozi Onadeko, and other members. Makinde had earlier disclosed that the incident was politicized, with allegations that he orchestrated the kidnap.
Makinde reiterated that while the victims had regained freedom, the state's duty did not end with rescue. He emphasized that truth brings closure, and accountability and reform restore public confidence. The governor assured that the government would examine the recommendations and implement measures to prevent a recurrence. He stressed that confidentiality would not be used as an excuse to avoid accountability.
The governor said the government would release a White Paper on the report after due consideration and use its lessons to strengthen school security across the state. Makinde also noted that the commission was not set up to undermine security agencies but to establish facts and learn lessons. He described the report as a crucial step towards strengthening security around schools and vulnerable communities.
The Oriire abduction incident drew widespread condemnation, with many calling for measures to prevent such incidents in the future. The Oyo State government has been working to improve security in the state, particularly around schools. Makinde's administration has prioritized education and security, with a focus on ensuring that schools are safe for students and teachers.
The report's recommendations are expected to inform policy decisions aimed at preventing similar incidents in the future. Makinde's pledge to implement measures to prevent a recurrence has been welcomed by stakeholders, who are eager to see concrete actions taken to strengthen school security. The government's response to the report is expected to be made public through a White Paper.
Key points
- Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, receives report on Oriire abduction and pledges to implement measures to prevent recurrence.
- The Judicial Commission of Inquiry heard from 72 witnesses and visited affected communities to establish facts surrounding the abduction incident.
- The government will release a White Paper on the report after due consideration, outlining measures to strengthen school security across the state.
