Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has inaugurated an eight-member Judicial Commission of Inquiry to investigate the abduction of students and teachers in the Esiele and Yawata communities of Oriire Local Government Area.
Speaking on Friday during the inauguration ceremony at the Governor’s Office in Agodi, Ibadan, Governor Makinde revealed that severe political allegations linking his administration to the May 15, 2026, kidnap incident made a transparent, independent investigation essential. He noted that critics went as far as accusing his government of masterminding the abduction, creating a narrative that required an impartial probe to establish the facts and restore public confidence.
The governor emphasized that while the victims were successfully rescued after a 56-day captivity period, the state’s responsibility extends beyond their safe return. He reiterated that accountability, reform, and determining the truth behind the attack are necessary steps to prevent similar incidents and safeguard schools across the state.
The commission is mandated to establish the facts surrounding the kidnapping, identify institutional or operational failures, and recommend measures to strengthen security for schools and rural communities.
The eight-member panel is chaired by retired Court of Appeal Justice, Professor Mojeed Owoade. Other members of the commission include Professor Jibril Ibrahim, Mrs. Ayo Obe, retired Assistant Inspector-General of Police Ngozi Onadeko, Dr. Abimbola Orogade, retired Major General Sanusi Nasir Muazu, and Mr. Folorunsho Osunrayi, with Mrs. Olamide Sandra Tella serving as the commission's secretary.
Governor Makinde granted the panel four weeks to submit its report, with an assurance that additional time would be provided if necessary to ensure a comprehensive investigation. In his response, panel chairman Justice Owoade promised that the commission’s findings and recommendations would be guided strictly by evidence, law, and public interest.
