Yoruba Nation activist Chief Sunday Adeyemo, widely known as Sunday Igboho, has been released by the Beninese government after a lengthy two-year legal battle. Igboho himself confirmed his freedom in a statement shared on his Instagram account.
In a video captioned “My Release in Benin Republic,” Igboho expressed his profound gratitude to God and the global Yoruba community for their unwavering love and support. He also mentioned his ongoing personal ordeal concerning the burial of his late mother, who remains in a morgue, awaiting a proper and befitting burial.
Sunday Igboho extended special thanks to President Talon of Benin Republic and his cabinet members for their role in securing his release. He also acknowledged the support of prominent Yoruba leaders, including Professor Banji Akintoye and Nobel laureate Professor Wole Soyinka, who stood by him throughout his time in Benin.
The Yoruba activist expressed his appreciation to former President Olusegun Obasanjo and Baba Ayo Adebanjo for their contributions to his cause, emphasizing that ultimate freedom is a gift from God. He further extended gratitude to religious leaders, pastors, Muslim clerics, and traditional worshippers for their unwavering prayers.
Sunday Igboho also called upon Yoruba royal fathers, Obas, and Chiefs to intensify their support in the quest for the Yoruba nation’s sovereignty. While acknowledging several Obas on his list, he particularly thanked Oba Francis Olushola Alao, Olugbon of Orile Igbon and deputy chairman of the Oyo State Council of Obas, and Oba Tejuoso, Oni Kenta of Orile Kenta, among others.
This development marks a significant moment in Sunday Igboho’s tumultuous journey. He had been arrested on July 19, 2021, at the Cadjèhoun Airport in Cotonou, Benin, by the International Criminal Police Organisation (Interpol) while attempting to travel to Germany. His arrest came after a controversial and violent raid on his residence in Soka, Ibadan, by the Department of State Services (DSS) in Nigeria, where he was accused of stockpiling arms.
Sunday Igboho’s release brings relief to his supporters and raises questions about the implications for the Yoruba Nation movement, which advocates for the self-determination of the Yoruba people in Nigeria. As Igboho resumes his activities, his journey continues to be closely watched by both supporters and critics alike.
