Activist Emphasizes Security Focus, Not Ethnic Targeting
Sunday Adeyemo, widely known as Sunday Igboho, has clarified that his advocacy for enhanced security in Nigeria’s South-West region is directed solely at combating criminal elements, rather than targeting any specific ethnic group. In a statement released through his spokesperson, Olayomi Koiki, Igboho urged all Nigerians to collaborate with governmental and security agencies to eliminate crime without consideration of religious or ethnic backgrounds.
Fulani Group Criticizes Igboho’s Remarks
According to a report by Punch Online, the Fulani socio-cultural organization, the Concerned Fulanis of Nigeria, has accused President Bola Tinubu and Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde of failing to take action against Igboho’s alleged inflammatory statements aimed at the Fulani community regarding accusations of kidnapping targeting women and children. The chairman of the group, Ibrahim Barkinde Chubad, expressed concern over Igboho’s comments that have escalated tensions.
Igboho Responds to Criticism
In what appeared to be a direct response to the CFPN’s statement, Igboho characterized the criticism as “baseless” and a “distortion of facts” regarding the ongoing insecurity in parts of Yorubaland. He emphasized that his calls for improved security have consistently targeted criminal elements rather than any particular ethnic group.
Clarifying Intentions
Igboho vehemently stated, “I have never declared war on any ethnic group; I have consistently expressed my position against criminal elements responsible for kidnappings, heinous killings, rapes, and violent attacks across the Yoruba community.” His statement aimed to underline that the goal is the protection of innocent lives and the fostering of peace and justice in society.
Rejecting Ethnic Profiling Claims
Furthermore, he labeled the CFPN’s assertions as short-sighted and ignorant, stressing that their concerns are misplaced. Igboho argued that portraying responses to security challenges in the South-West as ethnic profiling is both misleading and detrimental, especially as citizens face threats from violent criminals.
Support for Law Enforcement Efforts
Igboho acknowledged the efforts of law enforcement in tackling criminality, commending Inspector General of Police Tunji Disu and other security agency leaders for their initiatives against ongoing violence. He expressed a commitment to cooperating with these agencies to ensure the safety of communities in the region, asserting that maintaining security should be a collective responsibility.
Call for Collaborative Action against Crime
In closing, Igboho urged those advocating for government warnings against him to instead focus on supporting more robust security measures aimed at dismantling criminal networks. He underscored the importance of ensuring justice for victims of kidnappings and other violent crimes, reinforcing that the fight against criminality transcends ethnic lines.
