Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has inaugurated an eight-member Judicial Commission of Inquiry to investigate the kidnapping of pupils and teachers from Esinele and Yawota communities in Oriire Local Government Area on May 15, 2026.
The inauguration ceremony was held on Friday at the Executive Council Chamber of the Governor’s Office, Secretariat, Agodi, Ibadan, with Prof. Mojeed Owoade named as chairman of the panel.
According to Makinde, the establishment of the commission is aimed at uncovering the circumstances surrounding the incident and identifying lessons that can help improve security around schools and vulnerable communities.
He said, “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.”
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The governor directed the commission to determine what transpired during the abduction, identify any institutional or operational shortcomings, and propose measures that would enhance the protection of schools and communities against future attacks.
Makinde also assured the panel of the state government’s support, saying it would be provided with the resources needed to carry out its assignment independently and professionally.
He gave the commission four weeks to submit its report, noting that it could seek an extension if more time was required to conduct a thorough investigation.
Speaking to journalists after the inauguration, Prof. Owoade said the panel would carry out its work objectively and assured the public that “nothing but the truth will form their reports and recommendation.”
Other members of the commission include Prof. Jibril Ibrahim, Mrs Ayo Obẹ, retired Assistant Inspector-General of Police Ngozi Onadeko, Mr Abimbola Orogade, retired Maj.-Gen. Sanusi Muazu, and Mr Folorunsho Osunrayi. Mrs Olamide Sandra Tella will serve as secretary to the commission.