The Lagos State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has endorsed Oyo State Governor, Engr. Oluseyi Makinde’s call for an independent international investigation into the abduction of schoolchildren and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State.

In a statement on Wednesday issued by its Publicity Secretary, Prince Dr. Christopher Odianarewo, the party described Governor Makinde’s position as “courageous and patriotic,” insisting that the circumstances surrounding the abduction and eventual rescue of the victims require transparent scrutiny.

The opposition party said the kidnapping of innocent pupils, their prolonged captivity and the details of their rescue had raised questions that deserved credible answers in the interest of accountability and public confidence.

According to the Lagos PDP, democratic societies thrive on truth and transparency, adding that no individual, institution or political party should oppose an impartial investigation if there is nothing to conceal.

The party expressed concern over what it described as discomfort among some members of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) regarding calls for an independent inquiry into the incident.

It also questioned what it termed the apparent resistance from certain quarters within the Presidency to demands for broader scrutiny of the abduction, arguing that a government committed to transparency should welcome efforts aimed at establishing the facts and strengthening confidence in the nation’s security framework.

“The welfare and safety of Nigerian children must remain a national priority. Parents and citizens have a right to know exactly what transpired and to demand accountability in matters involving the security of schoolchildren,” the statement said.

The Lagos PDP maintained that Governor Makinde’s call was not politically motivated but was focused on justice, accountability and restoring public trust.

The party noted that an independent investigation would either validate the official account of events or provide answers to unresolved questions, thereby strengthening confidence in public institutions.

Consequently, the Lagos PDP joined Governor Makinde in calling for a comprehensive international investigation into the Oriire schoolchildren abduction.

The party specifically advocated the involvement of relevant international organisations, including agencies of the United Nations, global human rights groups and, where necessary, the United States intelligence community, including the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA), to assist in uncovering the facts surrounding the incident.

It argued that the international community had consistently demonstrated commitment to combating terrorism and violent crimes globally and should support efforts to ensure accountability where the safety of children is concerned.

Reaffirming its commitment to justice, transparency and the protection of Nigerian children, the Lagos PDP insisted that “the truth should never be feared, transparency should never be resisted, and accountability should never be politicised.”

The party urged all stakeholders to support efforts aimed at establishing the full facts surrounding the abduction and ensuring that lessons are learnt to improve the security of schools across the country.