The Allied People’s Movement (APM) has thrown its weight behind the call by its Presidential Candidate and Governor of Oyo State, Engr. Seyi Makinde, for an international investigation into the recent abduction of schoolchildren and their teachers in Oyo State, describing the reactions of leaders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) as suspicious.
In a statement issued on Wednesday by its National Publicity Secretary, Abubakar Yusuf, the party argued that the criticism from top APC government officials and party leaders, including senators, over Makinde’s appeal for a United Nations backed investigation suggests unease among those who may be afraid of the truth.
According to the APM, Governor Makinde’s request for international scrutiny was aimed solely at ensuring transparency, accountability and public confidence in the handling of the incident, insisting that such a move does not undermine Nigeria’s sovereignty.
The party quoted Makinde as saying that the circumstances surrounding the abduction were “sufficiently grave and unusual” to warrant independent scrutiny beyond domestic institutions, adding that international oversight would strengthen confidence in the outcome of investigations rather than weaken the country’s institutions.
The APM noted that seeking international collaboration in addressing terrorism is not unprecedented, recalling that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu had on several occasions appealed for global support in combating terrorism, including intelligence sharing and security cooperation through international organisations. It also referenced the President’s engagement with officials of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) in 2024 as part of efforts to strengthen international collaboration against insecurity.
The opposition party questioned why APC leaders had become “agitated and desperate” over Makinde’s demand for an independent probe, arguing that only those with something to hide would oppose efforts aimed at establishing the truth.
The statement further urged prominent APC figures, including Senator Adams Oshiomhole and the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, to support the search for truth rather than criticise the Oyo State governor.
While reaffirming its support for Makinde’s position, the APM also commended Nigeria’s security agencies for their professionalism and gallantry in rescuing the abducted schoolchildren. The party praised the armed forces and other security personnel for their continued sacrifices in the fight against terrorism and urged them to remain steadfast in protecting lives and property across the country.
The party maintained that establishing the truth behind the abduction remains essential to strengthening public confidence in Nigeria’s security architecture and ensuring justice for all those affected.
