APM backs Makinde’s call for independent probe of Oriire abduction, faults APC’s resistance

The Lagos State chapter of the Allied Peoples Movement (APM) has thrown its weight behind Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde’s call for an independent investigation into the kidnapping of schoolchildren and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area, questioning the opposition to the proposal by the All Progressives Congress (APC), the Nigerian Senate.

In a statement issued on Tuesday by Ayodele Kazeem, its state publicity secretary, the party expressed concern over what it described as the swift rejection of the governor’s request for an independent probe.

The APM argued that a transparent and credible investigation should not be opposed if all stakeholders are genuinely interested in uncovering the circumstances surrounding the incident.

“We are deeply concerned by the swift opposition from the All Progressives Congress (APC), the Nigerian Senate, and Senator Adams Oshiomhole to Governor Makinde’s request for an independent probe. Their resistance raises a fundamental question: What are they afraid of?” the statement said.

According to the party, an independent investigation would help establish the facts, identify those responsible for the kidnapping and ensure justice for the victims and their families.

The APM maintained that seeking the involvement of international institutions in matters relating to justice, accountability and human rights does not undermine Nigeria’s sovereignty, noting that the country remains a sovereign state and a member of the United Nations.

The party also accused some critics of Makinde’s position of inconsistency, claiming that many of the same political actors had previously called for international intervention during the administration of former President Goodluck Jonathan over issues relating to insecurity and governance.

“It is therefore difficult to reconcile their current position with their previous advocacy. Nigerians deserve consistency, not selective outrage driven by political expediency,” the statement added.

The opposition party said the focus should be on identifying the perpetrators of the crime, exposing any collaborators and addressing possible security lapses that enabled the attack rather than criticising calls for greater transparency.

The APM further urged the Federal Government, the National Assembly and security agencies to support all lawful efforts aimed at uncovering the truth behind the kidnapping.

According to the party, attempts to discourage calls for an independent investigation could deepen public distrust and weaken confidence in public institutions.

The statement also linked the incident to broader concerns about insecurity in the country, calling for comprehensive security reforms, including improved intelligence gathering, stronger inter-agency collaboration and constitutional measures that would enable states to play greater roles in protecting lives and property.

“The victims deserve justice. Their families deserve answers. Nigerians deserve the truth,” the party stated.

The APM said Governor Makinde’s call for an independent probe should be viewed as an opportunity to strengthen public confidence in democratic institutions and reinforce accountability in matters involving the lives of citizens.