Yoruba self-determination advocate, Sunday Adeyemo, popularly known as Sunday Igboho, has claimed that he possesses information on politicians allegedly backing kidnapping activities in Oyo State and warned that he may publicly expose them if the situation persists.
Igboho made the allegation on Wednesday while hosting newly elected leaders of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), led by Akinteye Babatunde, at his residence in the Soka area of Ibadan. His remarks were captured in a video that has since gained widespread attention online.
According to him, some influential political figures are providing financial support and weapons to criminal groups responsible for abductions in the state.
The activist also disclosed that he had offered to assist in rescuing pupils abducted in Oriire Local Government Area but was allegedly advised against intervening by the Oyo State Government. He said state officials informed him that the kidnappers threatened to harm the victims if he became involved in the operation.
“They are ordinary human beings and can be driven out of their hideouts. I know the politicians sponsoring them, and if they refuse to stop these activities, I will expose every one of them. They are the ones supplying money and ammunition to these criminals,” he said.
Igboho maintained that if security authorities allowed him and his associates to enter the forests where the kidnappers operate, the criminals would have no choice but to flee.
He further claimed that although he secured federal approval for the establishment of the Iru Ekun security network, state authorities discouraged its deployment during efforts to rescue the abducted children.
“After putting together the Iru Ekun security outfit and obtaining federal approval, the state government insisted that no independent security operation should proceed without its approval. If they truly want to rescue the children, they should allow my team to flush the kidnappers out of the forests and see whether they can continue to remain there,” he stated.
Expressing concern over the fate of the abducted pupils, Igboho said his interest in the matter stemmed from a desire to protect innocent lives rather than any personal benefit.
He also suggested that the current wave of insecurity forms part of a wider agenda aimed at discrediting the administration of President Bola Tinubu.
According to him, certain groups are attempting to destabilise the country and erode public confidence in the government through coordinated acts of violence and misinformation.
“The same tactics used against former President Goodluck Jonathan are being repeated today. Some people want to make the country difficult to govern and are spreading propaganda to turn citizens against the President,” he alleged.
Igboho also recalled that Tinubu supported him during his period of exile, insisting that he has no reason to oppose the President.
His comments come amid heightened concern over insecurity following the abduction of dozens of pupils and teachers during attacks on three schools in Oriire Local Government Area on May 15, an incident that triggered public outrage and protests in several parts of the country.
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