Igboho alleges political backing for kidnappers
Yoruba Nation activist Sunday Adeyemo, popularly known as Sunday Igboho, has alleged that some politicians are sponsoring the kidnappers responsible for the recent abduction of pupils and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State.
Speaking at his residence in the Soka area of Ibadan, Igboho made the claim while hosting newly elected executives of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS).
According to him, certain political figures provide financial support and ammunition to criminal groups operating in parts of the state. He further alleged that the ongoing kidnappings form part of a broader agenda aimed at creating instability and making the country difficult to govern.
The activist also claimed that the actions of these groups are intended to weaken public confidence in the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
“Despite how bad Buhari’s administration is, he completed his tenure. Why are they trying to stop a Yoruba man, Tinubu, from completing his? It was Tinubu who freed me when I was in exile. Why should I tackle him? And why are they trying to ruin his government?” Igboho said.
Activist claims rescue efforts were halted
Furthermore, Igboho said he volunteered to lead an operation to flush out the kidnappers from their hideouts following the abduction of the students and teachers.
However, he claimed that the Oyo State Government discouraged him from taking part in the rescue efforts. According to him, state officials informed him that the abductors had threatened to harm the children if he attempted to intervene directly.
As a result, he said he was advised not to proceed with the planned operation.
Igboho maintained that he was prepared to mobilize his security network, to assist in tracking down the criminals and securing the release of the victims.
Watch Sunday Igboho addressing NANS newly elected executives below:
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Threatens to reveal names, raises concerns over security network
The activist further declared that he would expose the identities of politicians allegedly linked to the kidnappings if the situation persists.
In addition, he claimed that his private security outfit, known as “Iru Ekun,” had received approval from the federal government to operate. However, he alleged that the Oyo State Government prevented the group from functioning within the state.
“After I arranged ‘Iru Ekun’ security network, the federal government permitted me, but the state government said no security must take a step behind them. Do we have to wait for him to flood the forests to rescue these children? I’m just concerned about these abductees; nobody can kidnap me, not even my family, because they are spread across Canada and Germany. Why should I fret?”
The claims come amid heightened anxiety over the abduction of pupils and teachers from three schools in Oriire Local Government Area.
Meanwhile, authorities have not publicly responded to Igboho’s allegations. The claims also remain unverified. Nevertheless, his remarks have intensified public debate about insecurity, kidnapping, and the need for stronger measures to protect schools and communities across Oyo State.
