Senator Jimoh Ibrahim, Nigeria’s UN Permanent Representative, has implored Governor Seyi Makinde to apologize to victims of the recent school abduction in Oyo State.
He explained that the apology was necessary to demonstrate empathy and accountability.
Reacting to Makinde’s request for a UN probe into the incident, Ibrahim said the government should focus on supporting victims and their families rather than seeking international intervention.
He, however, commended the safe release of the abducted pupils.
He pointed out that the United Nations does not interfere in the internal affairs of its member states.
He added: “It is not an institution established to investigate domestic security incidents. Security within a country’s territory remains the primary responsibility of the government at all levels.”
The former chairman of the Nigerian Senate Committee on Inter-Parliamentary Affairs said Governor Makinde should publicly identify with the victims and acknowledge the trauma they endured.
“The first duty of government is the protection of lives and property,” Ibrahim said. “When that responsibility is challenged, leaders should identify with the victims, express genuine sympathy and provide the support necessary for their recovery.”
He described a public apology as a meaningful expression of compassion and responsible leadership, particularly in the aftermath of a traumatic event involving children and educators.
He also urged the Oyo State government to provide support for the families of any teachers who may have lost their lives as a result of the incident. He suggested that the state seek additional assistance if necessary to ensure adequate care for affected families.
“If Oyo State requires additional financial support to care for these children and the families affected, the governor should make the need known,” he said. “Nigerians are compassionate people and will readily support initiatives aimed at giving the victims a better future.”
He also advised state governments in Nigeria to strengthen security measures around educational institutions and work more closely with security agencies to prevent future attacks.
According to him, ensuring the safety of schools should remain a national priority, describing security as a shared responsibility among federal, state and local authorities.
