The Yoruba Self-Determination Movement (YSDM), an organization promoting Yorubaland’s autonomy, has appealed to President Bola Tinubu to review Chief Sunday Adeyemo’s case, popularly known as Sunday Igboho.
The group made the appeal during a press conference at the Press Centre, Iyaganku, Ibadan. Leaders emphasized that the current administration must reassess Igboho’s situation to ensure justice and fairness.
Background of Igboho’s Legal Challenges
During former President Muhammadu Buhari’s administration, the government declared Chief Sunday Adeyemo wanted and ordered security agencies to arrest him wherever they found him. Meanwhile, Igboho continued to campaign actively against the killings, kidnappings, and assaults targeting Yoruba citizens.
Architect Opeoluwa Akinola, Deputy Leader (Homeland) of YSDM, explained that the Department of State Services (DSS) invaded Igboho’s home illegally. The operation resulted in several deaths, detained many of his relatives, and forced Igboho into exile. During exile, he endured months of imprisonment under harsh conditions, disregarding legal procedures.
Personal and Financial Impacts
Akinola further explained that Igboho suffers financially because the government froze his bank accounts indefinitely. He stressed that authorities have not presented any formal criminal charges against him.
“The illegal actions inflicted immense pain on Chief Sunday Adeyemo and his family,” Akinola said. “Authorities must reverse house invasions, release detained relatives, end his exile, and unfreeze his bank accounts. Igboho has not committed theft, robbery, kidnapping, or murder. We urge the government to correct these injustices immediately.”
The YSDM urged President Tinubu to remove the “wanted” label and grant Igboho his freedom. They argued that reviewing his case would restore justice, demonstrate government accountability, and uphold human rights.
Akinola added, “Chief Sunday Adeyemo, alias Igboho, has devoted his life to defending Yoruba citizens from violence. The government should act swiftly to clear his name, restore his freedom, and lift restrictions on his accounts. Doing so will show that the authorities respect law and human dignity.”
Advocacy for Yoruba Autonomy
The movement also reaffirmed its long-term goal of a free and autonomous Yoruba Nation. YSDM stressed that Yoruba citizens deserve a society free from corruption, oppression, and systemic neglect. They said resolving Igboho’s case represents a critical step toward achieving these objectives.
Furthermore, the organization called on all stakeholders to support efforts promoting justice, equality, and transparency across Nigeria. They noted that fair treatment of Igboho could inspire broader reforms that respect citizens’ rights while ensuring regional peace.
The YSDM’s appeal to President Tinubu highlights the ongoing struggles for justice and human rights in Nigeria. By urging a thorough review of Chief Sunday Igboho’s case, the group underscores the importance of protecting citizens, enforcing due process, and fostering a fair governance system.
