Yoruba Nation separatist leader Sunday Adeyemo, widely known as Sunday Igboho, has asserted that Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde is aware of how to rescue the abducted schoolchildren and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area. The claim comes amid increasing demands for decisive action following the kidnapping incident.
Igboho's Allegations of Political Sponsorship
Speaking on Wednesday, June 3, when the President of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), Akinteye Babatunde Afeez, led a delegation to his residence, Igboho alleged that the worsening insecurity in the country is being influenced by political actors. He described the situation as a “game” involving members of the political class.
According to Igboho, the kidnappers behind the attack are being supported by some politicians. He vowed to expose those allegedly backing them, stating, “I’m boasting, I can tackle these kidnappers. I swear by my creator, they will run away.”
Request for Permission to Confront Kidnappers
Igboho also claimed he had met with the Minister of Defence and requested permission to enter the forests to confront the abductors. He insisted that he and his team have the capacity to dislodge them if authorised. He alleged that some individuals within the political class are sponsoring criminal groups and warned that he would reveal names if the support does not stop.
Restrictions on Security Initiative
Regarding his security initiative, Igboho said his group, the Iru Ekun Security Network, had not been fully allowed to operate in Oyo State. He explained that the state government required security outfits to obtain approval before operating, following an executive order signed by Governor Makinde regulating such groups.
Igboho questioned the restriction, insisting that his team was ready to act but had been asked to be patient. “We said we can face the kidnappers, do we need any approval?” he asked. He further said he had volunteered himself and his team to enter the forests but was restrained by official processes.
Background of the Kidnapping Incident
On May 15, gunmen attacked schools in Oriire Local Government Area, abducting students and teachers. The incident later led to the killing of one of the abducted teachers. The abduction sparked widespread outrage and protests by education stakeholders, including members of the Nigeria Union of Teachers. In response to rising insecurity, Governor Makinde had signed an executive order regulating the activities of security-related groups operating within the state.
