‘Tinubu allowed my return to Nigeria’ – Sunday Igboho

Yoruba Nation campaigner, Sunday Adeyemo, widely known as Sunday Igboho, has revealed that President Bola Tinubu approved his return to Nigeria after nearly five years abroad.

Igboho, who arrived back in the country on Monday, had left Nigeria in 2021 after he was declared wanted by the Federal Government under the administration of the late President Muhammadu Buhari over allegations involving the possession of firearms.

It will be recalled that on July 1, 2021, operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS), supported by soldiers, stormed his residence in Ibadan, Oyo State, in a bid to arrest him.

The operation reportedly resulted in the death of two of his associates, while 13 others were taken into custody.

In a statement released on Friday in Ibadan, Igboho explained that sustained interventions by traditional rulers and other influential stakeholders in the South West played a key role in securing his return.

He also expressed gratitude to South West governors for their backing, specifically acknowledging Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State, Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State, Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State, Ademola Adeleke of Osun State, Biodun Oyebanji of Ekiti State and Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo State.

The activist further extended appreciation to prominent monarchs, including the Olubadan of Ibadan, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja; the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi; and the Olugbon of Orile Igbon, Oba Francis Olushola Alao, among others.

He said, “I deeply appreciate the mercy and maganimity of our revered President Tinubu, who graciously granted me freedom to return to Nigeria after intervention by stakeholders in the traditional institution.

“While I would not take this opportunity and freedom for granted, I am ready to collaborate with the Federal Government in tackling the ravaging insecurity and support measures aimed at enhancing peace and socioeconomic growth in the country, mostly especially in the South West.

“While commending the South West governors, I want to single out Governor Seyi Makinde for his giant strides in the steady development of Oyo State.

The visible impacts of his administration in virtually all the sectors and enviable infrastructural growth of this state have greatly turned around the aesthetics of Oyo to the envy of all.

“Similarly, I want to congratulate him on the commemoration of the 50th anniversary of Oyo State, which showcased noble roles played by statesmen and past leaders, whose significant contributions laid a stronger pedestal for the healthy developments being witnessed today.

“Besides, the love and support from all Yoruba indigenes are too massive, and I will continue to cherish everyone while also recommitting myself to the peace, unity, growth and protection of the collective interest of our ethnic nationality.”