A Yoruba socio-political organisation, Yoruba Commitment Group (YCG), has applauded President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for approving the removal of Yoruba rights activist Sunday Adeyemo, popularly known as Sunday Igboho, from the Federal Government’s list of wanted persons.
In a statement jointly signed by Otunba Tayo Onayemi (Convener), Chief Olugbenga Oyewusi, Mrs Buky Tunde Oshunrinde, Barr. Akeem Aponmade (Secretary) and Dr Olukayode Olunuga, the group also thanked traditional rulers across Yorubaland for their behind-the-scenes efforts in achieving the development.
“A Courageous Defender of Yoruba Race”
The group described Igboho as a courageous defender of the Yoruba people, saying he stood up against the activities of suspected Fulani terrorists.
They recalled that Igboho’s ordeal began in 2021 when he intervened in Igangan, Ibarapa area of Oyo State, following complaints of attacks, kidnappings and killings allegedly carried out by armed herders.
DSS Raid and Aftermath
YCG alleged that federal authorities later moved against Igboho, leading to a raid on his Ibadan residence in July 2021 by operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS).
The raid reportedly led to the death of two persons and massive destruction of property.
YCG Calls Tinubu’s Action “Statesmanlike”
While praising Tinubu for removing Igboho’s name from the wanted list, the group described the move as “magnanimous and statesmanlike,” saying it reflects a commitment to justice and reconciliation.
The statement partly read:
“In the classics, it is not the fate of most heroes to end well. What no one forgets easily are the feats that make a hero. Before our very eyes, and within our confines, the hunter became the hunted.”
“Today, we join well-meaning men and women, within and outside Yorubaland, to celebrate the return of the defender of our pride, Sunday Igboho.”
Optimism for Full Resolution
The group expressed optimism that continued engagement between traditional institutions and the federal authorities would help resolve remaining issues surrounding Igboho’s case, in the interest of peace, unity and stability in the South-West and Nigeria at large.
