Oyo Abduction: Senate Says UN Probe Demand Undermines Nigeria’s Sovereignty
The Senate and the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), George Akume, have criticised Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde over his call for a United Nations-backed investigation into the abduction and rescue of 39 pupils and six teachers in Oriire Local Government Area of the state. During Tuesday's plenary, senators warned that such a proposal could undermine Nigeria's sovereignty and diminish the efforts of security agencies that secured the victims' release after 56 days in captivity without paying ransom. The Senate adopted a motion sponsored by Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele, commending President Bola Tinubu, the Armed Forces, intelligence agencies and other security institutions for the rescue operation, while also recognising the sacrifices of personnel who lost their lives during the mission. Speaking during the debate, Senator Adams Oshiomhole described Makinde's call as unnecessary and politically motivated, arguing that inviting the UN to investigate a domestic security operation questioned Nigeria's sovereignty and downplayed the achievements of the country's security forces. SGF George Akume also faulted the governor, accusing him of politicising the incident. He maintained that the Federal Government prioritised rescuing the victims rather than engaging in public commentary.
Makinde had, on Monday, called for an independent UN-backed investigation while assuming responsibility for the welfare, rehabilitation and education of the rescued pupils and teachers. He argued that Nigerians deserved a full account of the circumstances surrounding both the abduction and the rescue.
The victims were kidnapped on May 15, 2026, when bandits attacked three schools in the Yawota and Ahoro Esiele communities of Oriire Local Government Area. Defending the governor's position, the Oyo State House of Assembly said terrorism and attacks on schools had become transnational challenges requiring greater international cooperation. It argued that independent investigations into major security incidents were common in many democracies and did not undermine national sovereignty. The Assembly maintained that Makinde's proposal was aimed at strengthening Nigeria's security architecture rather than assigning blame. It also called on Nigerians to support initiatives that would improve school safety, prevent future abductions and enhance the country's fight against terrorism while commiserating with the families of security personnel and the teacher who died during the rescue operation.
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