Oriire Abduction: Senate rebukes Makinde for seeking UN investigation

The Senate on Tuesday rebuked Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde over his call on the United Nations (UN) to investigate the abduction of students and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area of the state.

The Senate’s position followed a motion sponsored by the Senate Leader, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, in which the upper chamber commended Nigeria’s security agencies for securing the release of the victims.

The students and teachers were abducted on May 15, 2026, in Oriire Local Government Area. They regained their freedom after spending 56 days in captivity.

Bamidele described the abduction as a disturbing indication of the spread of organised criminal activities into the South-West geopolitical zone.

He also recounted the swift response of the nation’s security agencies following the abduction, noting that the rescue operation was carried out in line with directives issued by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

The abduction attracted widespread national attention and heightened concerns over insecurity in the South-West.

Following the rescue of the victims, Governor Makinde called on the UN and international human rights organisations to conduct an independent investigation into the incident.

Makinde’s call has generated mixed reactions, with the Senate maintaining that the security agencies deserve commendation for their successful handling of the rescue operation.