Yoruba Nation Agitator Sunday Adeyemo, popularly known as Sunday Igboho, has dismissed comments by human rights activist and former presidential candidate Omoyele Sowore, describing them as baseless criticism of his activism.
Sowore’s remarks followed a viral video in which he criticized what he called “transactional politics” among some regional agitators and influencers, accusing them of aligning with political actors for personal or material gain. In the video, Sowore appeared to reference Igboho, suggesting that his recent political positions — including support for President Bola Tinubu’s potential re-election bid — reflected what he termed “amala politics,” a colloquial expression implying opportunistic engagement rather than principled activism.
In a statement issued Tuesday in Ibadan by his media aide, Olayomi Koiki, Igboho described the comment as “an inconsequential rant” that should be ignored.
He said his agitation for improved security in the South-West and support for Tinubu’s possible second-term bid in 2027 were constitutional rights aimed at promoting the collective interests of the Yoruba people and Nigeria’s development.
“We strongly reject the characterization of Igboho’s activism as transactional,” the statement said. “Such a myopic position misrepresents the intent and focus of our agitation on effective grassroots security in the South-West and Nigeria as a whole.”
Igboho also questioned Sowore’s commitment to his cause, asking how many protests the activist had organized for his release, and alleging that Sowore’s claims of fighting for the masses were inconsistent with reports of high personal expenses.
He added that he could not be compelled to support political figures such as Peter Obi or Atiku Abubakar, or align with Sowore’s platform, insisting on his right to make independent political decisions.
According to the statement, Igboho’s advocacy focuses on addressing insecurity across Yorubaland, including attacks on farmers, kidnappings on highways and violence against traditional rulers.
Koiki said these concerns form the basis of Igboho’s movement, not any ambition for political office or revolutionary leadership.
While acknowledging Sowore’s calls for nationwide revolution, the statement said Igboho’s approach centers on protecting lives and property within Yoruba territory.
It also cited recent security incidents in northern Nigeria, including reported explosions in Maiduguri on March 16, 2026, as raising questions about the effectiveness of long-term revolutionary advocacy.
The statement challenged Sowore to assess security conditions in his home state of Ondo, citing rising cases of banditry, kidnapping and attacks on rural communities.
It added that insecurity has severely affected vulnerable groups, including farmers, traditional rulers, women and children, reinforcing Igboho’s call since 2020 for localized security measures and stronger regional protection strategies.
“Labeling our agitation as ‘amala politics’ undermines the urgency of the security crisis and the legitimacy of grassroots efforts,” the statement said.
