Fresh controversy has emerged over the recent abduction of students in Oyo State after Yoruba Nation activist Sunday Adeyemo, popularly known as Sunday Igboho, claimed he knows politicians allegedly linked to the crime.
Igboho made the remarks while hosting newly elected officials of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) at his residence in Ibadan.
The activist alleged that certain political figures were providing support to criminal groups operating in parts of the state. He further warned that he could publicly identify those involved if the attacks continue.
Speaking during the meeting, Igboho expressed frustration over what he described as restrictions placed on his efforts to assist in rescue operations following the abduction of students in Oriire Local Government Area.
According to him, he was prepared to enter the forests and confront the kidnappers directly. However, he claimed the state government advised against such action.
Meanwhile, Igboho insisted that he never requested financial support from the government for any rescue mission.
According to him:
“If I am permitted to burst into the hideouts, they will flee. They are neither gnomes nor mannequins; they are humans, so that they could be dislodged. I know the politicians behind them, and if they do not stop perpetrating their evil acts, I will mention them all. I know them. The politicians behind them are the ones giving them ammunition and money.”
Furthermore, he claimed officials later informed him that the kidnappers threatened to harm the victims if he attempted a rescue operation.
He said:
“Later, they (Oyo government) informed me that the kidnappers said if I try to force myself to come rescue the children, they will kill them all.”
The activist maintained that local security efforts could produce results if given the necessary support.
Moreover, he argued that criminal groups hiding in forests could be removed through coordinated operations.
Meanwhile, Igboho linked the security challenges to broader political developments in the country.
He stated:
“The same thing they did to Jonathan is what they are doing to Tinubu. They want to make the country ungovernable for him.”
According to him, misinformation campaigns are being used to create fear among citizens and weaken public confidence.
In addition, he questioned why attempts were allegedly being made to undermine President Bola Tinubu’s administration.
The activist also spoke about his proposed security outfit, known as the Iru Ekun Security Network.
He disclosed that he had sought approval to formally launch the initiative as part of efforts to tackle criminal activities in forests across the South-West.
Furthermore, he said the Federal Government had previously supported the idea.
However, he claimed the Oyo State Government raised concerns that intervention efforts could place abducted victims at greater risk.
Despite the challenges, Igboho expressed his readiness to comply with regulations governing private security operations in the state.
Therefore, he said his focus remains on strengthening local security efforts and supporting measures aimed at protecting communities.
