A organisation, Eken and Hellas Humanitarian Foundation (EAHHF), has thrown its weight behind Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, over his position on the call for an independent international review of the Oriire school abduction, while clarifying that the petition submitted to the United Nations and other international bodies did not originate from the governor or the Oyo State Government.
In a rejoinder issued by Mr. Yabo on the update surrounding the petitions, the organisation, said recent claims suggesting that Governor Makinde initiated an appeal to the United Nations for an investigation into the abduction were inaccurate and required clarification.
According to the statement, the correspondence to the UN and other international institutions was prepared and submitted on 18th June, 2026, several weeks before the rescue of the abducted pupils and teachers by an independent civil society organisation as part of its advocacy for improved security, the rule of law and accountability.
The foundation explained that the communications had already been acknowledged by the recipient institutions before the victims were rescued after spending 56 days in captivity.
It added that Governor Makinde was only copied in the correspondence alongside other stakeholders.
The organisation noted that following the successful rescue operation, Governor Makinde commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Armed Forces and security agencies for their efforts, while stating that he would welcome any lawful and credible independent process capable of strengthening public confidence and establishing the full facts surrounding the incident.
The rejoinder stressed that there was a clear distinction between an independent civil society organisation exercising its right to petition international bodies and the governor expressing his willingness to cooperate with any legitimate review should one be undertaken.
It further urged Nigerians to focus on supporting victims of insecurity, ensuring perpetrators are brought to justice and strengthening collaboration among all tiers of government to address security challenges.
The statement also maintained that the successful rescue of the abducted pupils and teachers demonstrated the benefits of cooperation between the Federal Government, the Oyo State Government and security agencies.
Speaking on behalf of the foundation, Mr Yabo welcomed the Oyo State Government’s response to the issue and said it reflected a commitment to transparency and accountability.
“The petition to the United Nations was never initiated by Governor Seyi Makinde or the Oyo State Government.“
“It was an independent civil society initiative undertaken as part of broader advocacy for accountability and improved security. We believe it is important that the public record reflects this accurately,” Mr Yabo said.
He added that the foundation was encouraged by the governor’s readiness to cooperate with any credible review process.
“We are pleased that the Oyo State Government has publicly aligned itself with the principles behind this initiative.“
“What matters now is not politics but ensuring that the victims receive the necessary support, that those responsible are brought to justice and that lessons are learnt to strengthen Nigeria’s security architecture,” he said.
Mr Yabo further urged public commentators to ensure that discussions on the abduction were based on facts rather than misconceptions.
“Public debate is essential in a democracy, but it must be guided by facts and an accurate chronology of events.“
“Clarifying who initiated the petitions helps prevent misunderstanding and keeps the focus where it belongs, on the welfare of the rescued children and teachers, accountability and preventing similar incidents in the future,” he added.
The foundation maintained that the rescue of the victims should serve as a reminder that sustained collaboration between governments, security agencies and civil society remains essential in tackling insecurity across the country.
