The Oyo State House of Assembly has endorsed Governor Seyi Makinde‘s call for an independent international investigation into the abduction of schoolchildren and their teachers in Oriire Local Government Area.
In a statement issued by the Office of the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Adebo Ogundoyin, the Assembly said a United Nations-backed investigation would help establish the full circumstances surrounding the incident, strengthen Nigeria’s security architecture and provide recommendations to prevent similar attacks on schools.
The lawmakers congratulated the state government, security agencies and residents on the successful rescue of the abducted pupils and teachers after weeks in captivity, describing the development as a major relief for the state.
According to the Assembly, recurring mass abductions of schoolchildren across Nigeria require fresh approaches, including greater international collaboration where necessary.
The House also defended Makinde’s call for an independent investigation, saying it should not be interpreted as criticism of the Federal Government or the country’s security agencies.
It noted that the governor had repeatedly commended President Bola Tinubu, the Armed Forces, intelligence agencies, the Nigeria Police Force, the Amotekun Corps and other security stakeholders for their coordinated efforts in rescuing the victims.
The Assembly argued that seeking an independent review of the incident and appreciating the efforts of security agencies are complementary measures aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s fight against terrorism and kidnapping.
It also maintained that many democratic countries have conducted independent investigations into major security incidents without compromising national sovereignty.
While welcoming the Senate’s resolutions seeking improved welfare, equipment and operational support for security agencies, the House said those recommendations align with Makinde’s objective of improving national security.
The lawmakers called on Nigerians to support every initiative capable of protecting schools, improving security and preventing future attacks on children. They also commiserated with the families of security personnel and the teacher who lost their lives during the incident.
