A coalition of civil society and public interest organisations, the Democracy and Good Governance Watch Initiative (DGGWI), has called on security agencies to place Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, on a security watchlist over his call for a United Nations probe into the abduction and subsequent rescue of the Oriire schoolchildren and teachers.
The group made the demand in a statement issued on Wednesday, July 15, 2026, and jointly signed by its conveners, Nelson Ekujumi, Popoola Ajayi, Gbenga Soloki and Shola Justice.
The coalition also praised President Bola Tinubu, the National Security Adviser, the Service Chiefs, the Armed Forces, Amotekun Corps, local vigilantes and other security operatives for what it described as the successful intelligence-led operation that secured the release of the abducted students and teachers after weeks in captivity.
According to the group, the rescue fulfilled President Tinubu’s assurance to Nigerians that the victims would be brought back safely.
“We are elated and give glory to God Almighty for giving our gallant security agencies victory over the forces of darkness by the successful rescue of the Oriire abductees,” the statement read.
The coalition thanked Nigerians for their prayers and support throughout the rescue operation, urging citizens to continue believing in the country and supporting efforts aimed at strengthening democracy and national security.
The group, however, strongly criticised Governor Makinde’s reported call for a UN investigation into the circumstances surrounding the abduction and rescue, describing it as “irresponsible, reckless, provocative and an assault on Nigeria’s sovereignty.”
It argued that as the Chief Security Officer of Oyo State and chairman of the State Security Council, Makinde already possesses the constitutional authority to initiate investigations into any security breach within the state if he considers it necessary.
The coalition questioned why the governor did not seek such an investigation while the victims were still in captivity but only after they had been rescued.
According to the group, Makinde’s comments undermined the sacrifices of security personnel and local vigilantes who lost their lives during the rescue operation.
It further alleged that the governor’s position raised questions that warranted closer scrutiny by security agencies.
“We are now using this medium to call on the security agencies to beam their searchlight on Governor Seyi Makinde and his administration in the investigation of the Oriire abduction,” the statement said.
The coalition also urged security agencies to place the governor under security watch ahead of the 2027 general elections, arguing that his comments were capable of inciting tension and constituted what it described as a threat to national security.
It maintained that the successful rescue of the abductees should be celebrated rather than subjected to what it called politically motivated conspiracy theories, while reaffirming its support for the Tinubu administration and Nigeria’s security institutions.