MAKINDE SETS UP PANEL TO PROBE OYO ABDUCTION

Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, on Friday inaugurated an eight-member Judicial Commission of Inquiry to investigate the abduction of students and teachers at Esinele and Yawota communities in Oriire Local Government Area of the state on May 15, 2026.

The commission, chaired by Prof. Mojeed Owoade, was inaugurated at the Executive Council Chamber, Governor’s Office, Secretariat, Agodi, Ibadan.

Makinde explained that, “the decision to set up an independent panel was not to undermine security agencies but to ensure every lesson is learnt, every question is answered and to establish facts surrounding the incident.”

The governor tasked the commission with establishing the facts surrounding the abduction, identifying any institutional or operational lapses, and recommending measures to strengthen the protection of schools and communities to prevent a recurrence.

Assuring the commission of the necessary support to enable it to operate independently and professionally, Makinde gave the panel four weeks to complete its assignment, adding that it could request additional time to ensure that no stone was left unturned.

Speaking with journalists, the chairman of the commission, Prof. Mojeed Owoade, expressed confidence in the team and assured the public that “nothing but the truth will form their reports and recommendation.”

Other members of the commission are Prof. Jibril Ibrahim, Mrs Ayo Obẹ, AIG Ngozi Onadeko (retd.), Mr Abimbola Orogade, Maj.-Gen. Sanusi Muazu (retd.), Mr Folorunsho Osunrayi, while Mrs Olamide Sandra Tella will serve as secretary.