Oyo abduction: APM defends Makinde’s call for UN probe

The Allied People’s Movement (APM) has publicly supported Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde's controversial call for an international investigation into the abduction of schoolchildren and teachers. The party argues that such a probe, particularly by the United Nations, is essential for uncovering the truth and bolstering Nigeria's fight against terrorism.

In a statement, APM National Publicity Secretary Abubakar Yusuf asserted that Makinde's request does not undermine Nigeria's sovereignty. Instead, the party believes it would deepen collaboration with international partners, framing terrorism as an international crime against humanity. This stance directly counters criticisms from some All Progressives Congress (APC) leaders and senators who cautioned Makinde against comments they deemed detrimental to the Federal Government's efforts.

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The APM invites Nigerians to note that only those unquieted by guilt and complicity, for which they are afraid of a probe, will become panicky, irrational and desperate to suppress the truth by speaking against genuine efforts to unravel the facts.

The abduction, which occurred on May 15, 2026, saw 39 pupils and six teachers taken from three schools in Oriire Local Government Area. Governor Makinde, while overseeing the welfare of the 45 rescued individuals, emphasized his call for international scrutiny was aimed at promoting accountability and transparency.

APM went further, suggesting that the strong negative reactions from some APC figures might stem from a fear of exposure. "The outburst by leaders of the All Progressives Congress... raises suspicion of complicity in very high places," the party stated, adding that only those "unquieted by guilt and complicity" would react with panic against efforts to uncover facts.

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Governor Makinde’s demand for an international probe into this act of terrorism against Nigerians did not undermine the sovereignty of our nation as claimed by APC leaders. Rather, it reinforces our sovereignty in the global arena by strengthening Nigeria’s collaboration with international partners in the fight against terrorism, which is an international crime against humanity.