Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has called on the United Nations and international human rights bodies to investigate the abduction of pupils and teachers from three schools in Oriire Local Government Area, describing the incident as sufficiently grave and unusual to warrant independent scrutiny beyond Nigeria’s domestic institutions.
The victims, 39 pupils and five teachers, were rescued on July 10 after spending 56 days in captivity following their abduction on May 15, 2026. Two male teachers were killed during the ordeal, while the remaining hostages were freed through a coordinated multi-agency security operation without the payment of ransom. Governor Makinde said a transparent investigation was necessary to determine whether there were institutional failures, negligence or possible collusion surrounding the attack and its aftermath.
Speaking after the victims were handed over to the state government, rescued principal Rachael Alamu recounted the harrowing conditions they endured in captivity. She said the children were forced to trek through forests, while the kidnappers used biscuits in the early days to gain the pupils’ trust.
According to her, the male teachers suffered the harshest treatment, being blindfolded, handcuffed, chained and tied up, with two eventually executed to pressure the government. She also disclosed that, despite the traumatic experience, none of the female captives was sexually assaulted.
Governor Makinde assured the rescued victims of medical, psychological and rehabilitation support, while reiterating the state’s commitment to strengthening security around vulnerable communities and schools. The incident has reignited concerns over the persistent threat of school kidnappings in Nigeria and renewed calls for stronger measures to protect students and educators.
