Governor tasks eight-member commission to uncover truth behind kidnapping of students and teachers in Oyo community

Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has inaugurated an eight-member Judicial Commission of Inquiry to probe the recent abduction of students and teachers in Esinele and Yawota communities, Oriire Local Government Area.

The inauguration, held amid growing public concern over insecurity in the area, was notably marked by the absence of two prominent traditional rulers in the state — the Olubadan of Ibadanland and the Alaafin of Oyo.

The panel is chaired by a retired Justice of the Court of Appeal, Professor Mojeed Owoade. Other members include Professor Jibril Ibrahim, Mrs. Ayo Obe, retired Engineer Ngozi Onadeko, Dr. Abimbola Orogade, retired Major General Sanusi Nasir Muazu (former General Officer Commanding, 2 Division), and Mr. Folorunsho Osunrayi.

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Mrs. Olamide Sandra Tella will serve as the Secretary to the commission.

Speaking during the inauguration, Governor Makinde commended the panel members for accepting the responsibility, describing their role as a critical national assignment.

“I called you out on a national assignment and none of the eight of you hesitated for once to accept to participate on this important call to duty. God bless you,” the governor said.

He expressed confidence in the panel’s ability to conduct a thorough and impartial investigation into the incident, with a view to uncovering the circumstances surrounding the abduction and recommending measures to prevent future occurrences.

The abduction in Oriire has heightened concerns over safety in rural communities, particularly in schools, with residents calling for swift action and lasting solutions.

The Judicial Commission is expected to begin sittings soon and submit its findings and recommendations to the state government within a stipulated timeframe.