HURIWA asks DSS to arrest Igboho over threats

The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria has called on the Department of State Services to immediately invite and, if necessary, arrest Yoruba Nation agitator, Sunday Adeyemo, popularly known as Sunday Igboho, over alleged threats against opposition politicians in the South-West.

The demand was made following a viral video and audio clip in which Igboho was reported to have warned that political opponents of President Bola Tinubu, including Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi, should not campaign in Yoruba land.

In a statement issued on Monday by its National Coordinator, Emmanuel Onwubiko, HURIWA stated that the alleged remarks were a threat to democratic order.

“These statements are dangerous, unlawful and capable of inciting political violence.

“Security agencies must act swiftly to prevent a breakdown of law and order ahead of the 2027 general elections,” HURIWA stated.

The association stressed that no individual has the constitutional authority to restrict political activities or movement within any part of the country.

HURIWA warned that the development reflects a broader pattern of political intimidation in the South-West, recalling incidents during the 2023 general election.

The group referenced actions attributed to Musiliu Akinsanya, popularly known as MC Oluomo, who faced criticism over alleged threats against non-indigenous voters, particularly Igbos, during the Lagos governorship election.

“Allowing individuals to openly threaten opposition figures without consequences risks normalising political violence and undermining national unity,” the statement said.

The association also cited what it described as inflammatory rhetoric from political actors, including presidential spokesperson Bayo Onanuga, warning that such narratives may embolden further threats.

HURIWA urged both the DSS and the Nigeria Police Force to invite Igboho for questioning and take necessary legal action if the allegations are substantiated.

“The convergence of these developments raises serious concerns about a coordinated pattern of political intimidation.

“Failure to act decisively could create the impression of state-backed complicity or selective enforcement of the law,” the group stated.

The organisation further warned that unchecked threats could escalate into violence and trigger reprisals in other regions.

The group called on President Tinubu to publicly distance himself from any individual or group issuing threats in his name.

“The President must take urgent steps to reassure Nigerians that no group is being empowered, directly or indirectly, to intimidate or attack political opponents,” HURIWA said, adding that “Silence or inaction could be interpreted as endorsement.”

HURIWA cautioned that Nigeria’s unity depends on safeguarding democratic freedoms, including the right to campaign and participate in politics across all regions.

“No part of the country should become a no-go area for any Nigerian seeking political support,” the group added. (Punch)