Yoruba nation campaigner Sunday Adeyemo, widely known as Sunday Igboho, has signalled his readiness to work alongside the Federal Government to combat insecurity in the South-West. Speaking in Ibadan, he said he and his supporters are willing to enter forests across Yorubaland to dislodge bandits and other criminal elements, but stressed that such action would require formal approval and backing from Abuja. “I need the support of the Federal Government to strengthen security in the South-West. I’m ready to enter the forests in Yorubaland with my boys to flush out terrorists who have been attacking our people in rural communities. “We can’t do anything if the Federal Government does not give us approval or support. With my freedom and pardon, I am ready to collaborate with the Federal Government to rid our forests of criminal elements and rogue herders who have become threats to the peace and tranquility of some of our communities.” Igboho, who has previously led community-driven efforts against suspected criminals in parts of Oyo State, described his offer as a contribution toward restoring safety in rural areas. His latest position marks a notable shift from his earlier standoff with federal authorities. In July 2021, security operatives raided his residence in Ibadan over allegations of stockpiling arms. The operation resulted in the death of three of his aides and the arrest of 13 others. He later fled the country and was arrested in Cotonou, Benin Republic, before regaining freedom in March 2022 after over a year in detention. Since returning to Nigeria on January 26, 2026, Igboho has reconnected with traditional rulers, including the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Rashidi Ladoja. He also acknowledged the roles played by the Ooni of Ife, Adeyeye Ogunwusi, and the Olugbon of Orile Igbon, Francis Alao, in facilitating his return. Reaffirming his stance, he said the administration of President Bola Tinubu must formally endorse any collaboration. “If the Federal Government under the leadership of President Tinubu gives us the go-ahead and support, I am absolutely ready to work in ensuring the effective security of our rural communities in the South-West. We have the capacity and manpower to carry out the task if we get approval and support from the government.” Beyond security in the South-West, Igboho also weighed in on developments in the South-East. He commended the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra, Nnamdi Kanu, for cancelling the long-running Monday sit-at-home directive. “Igboho believes that the move by Mazi Kanu to end the five-year Monday economic siege on the South-East zone is thoughtful.” He further advised Kanu to pursue dialogue with the Federal Government as a pathway to resolving his legal challenges. “Chief Igboho urges the IPOB leader to vigorously explore dialogue and mediation with the Federal Government to break the deadlock in his ordeal.” According to Igboho, meaningful engagement and negotiation remain key to restoring peace, stability, and economic growth in the region.
