The Nigerian government has been accused of continuing its clampdown on Yoruba Nation agitator, Sunday Adeyemo, also known as Sunday Igboho, despite changes in leadership and legal developments in his favour.
The accusation came on Monday through an audio message shared by his spokesperson, Olayemi Koiki.
Koiki questioned why Igboho’s name remains on the government’s wanted list even after he was released by the authorities in Benin Republic and a Nigerian court gave orders seen to be in his favour.
According to him, Igboho’s bank accounts and those of his businesses remain frozen, and the government has yet to comply with rulings regarding compensation.
He recalled how Igboho was declared wanted by Nigeria’s Department of State Services (DSS) in 2021 following a raid on his Ibadan home.
The raid was said to be based on claims that he was storing weapons, a charge his team has repeatedly denied.
Igboho managed to escape arrest during the operation, but the DSS later announced he was wanted and reported that firearms were recovered from his residence.
After fleeing to Benin Republic, Igboho was detained and brought before a court in Cotonou on several charges, including smuggling arms, inciting unrest, and pushing for the separation of the Yoruba from Nigeria.
His eventual release in March 2022 was celebrated by many of his followers in southwestern Nigeria.
Koiki also pointed out that while Igboho is not regarded as a criminal abroad, the Nigerian government continues to treat him as one at home.
He noted that there has been no financial compensation as directed by the court and insisted that the issues Igboho raised during his agitation are still present in the region.
Supporters said Igboho is being unfairly treated for his outspoken stance on problems in Yorubaland.
They maintained that his actions were aimed at defending the rights of his people and not criminal in nature.
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