Recent comments by Yoruba self-determination activist Sunday Adeyemo, popularly known as Sunday Igboho, have stirred widespread concern across Nigeria’s political and civic space.
In a viral video circulating on social media, Igboho warned supporters of opposition political figures such as Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi not to campaign in Lagos and other states of the South-West ahead of the 2027 general elections. His remarks, interpreted by many as an attempt to ethnicise the democratic process, have drawn criticism from citizens who believe the statement undermines Nigeria’s constitutional democracy and the long-standing reputation of the Yoruba people as champions of political tolerance.
For a region historically associated with progressive politics, intellectual pluralism and democratic freedom, such rhetoric is deeply troubling. The South-West, particularly Lagos, has always been a melting pot of ideas, cultures and political contestation. To suggest that certain candidates or their supporters should be barred from campaigning in the region is not only unconstitutional but fundamentally contrary to the democratic ethos the Yoruba people have defended for decades.
It is worth recalling that the political heritage of the region was shaped by leaders who believed strongly in open debate and political competition. Figures like Obafemi Awolowo built their political philosophy on democratic participation, ideological contest, and respect for the rule of law. Attempting to reduce electoral politics to ethnic loyalty runs counter to that legacy.
Igboho himself rose to prominence during the intense debates over security challenges in the South-West. At the height of the agitation against violent criminal activities linked to armed herders, he emerged as a symbol of resistance for many Yoruba youths who felt abandoned by the state. His confrontations with authorities eventually led to his dramatic arrest in 2021 in neighbouring Benin after fleeing Nigeria during a security crackdown.
Following years of legal battles abroad and diplomatic interventions, Igboho recently regained his freedom after receiving a form of pardon and relief from the legal complications that once threatened his liberty. Many Nigerians, including those who may not share his political ideology, welcomed the development as a humane resolution to a prolonged dispute.
It is therefore surprising and disappointing that someone who benefited from such leniency would return to the public space with remarks capable of inflaming ethnic suspicion and political hostility.
The troubling aspect of his statement is not merely its partisan tone, but the dangerous suggestion that electoral competition should be determined by ethnic identity rather than ideas, policies, and democratic choice. Such rhetoric risks reopening old wounds in a country that has struggled for decades to overcome the divisive politics of ethnicity.
The Yoruba political tradition, from the First Republic to the present democratic era, has been built on intellectual engagement rather than ethnic exclusion. Lagos, the commercial capital of Nigeria, thrives precisely because it belongs to all Nigerians. Any attempt either symbolic or real to restrict political activity in the region undermines the cosmopolitan identity that has made the South-West economically vibrant and politically influential.
Igboho must also remember that leadership, even informal leadership, carries responsibility. Words spoken by prominent figures often resonate far beyond their immediate audience. In a politically sensitive period when preparations for the 2027 elections are gradually taking shape, statements capable of provoking ethnic confrontation should be avoided.
More importantly, the cause he once championed; which focused on protecting the peace and dignity of Yoruba land cannot be advanced through inflammatory rhetoric. The South-West does not need political tension disguised as ethnic loyalty.
If anything, Igboho should now use his voice to promote peace, civic responsibility, and constructive dialogue. The struggle for justice, security, and regional development is too important to be reduced to narrow political partisanship.
Nigeria’s democracy is sustained by the freedom of citizens to campaign, mobilise and vote for candidates of their choice regardless of ethnicity or region. Attempts to intimidate political actors or suppress democratic engagement, no matter where they come from must be firmly rejected.
The Yoruba people have never been afraid of political competition. Their strength has always been their confidence in ideas and their belief in democratic choice.
Sunday Igboho would do well to remember this tradition and avoid statements that could sow unnecessary tension in a region that prides itself on political maturity.
The South-West should remain what it has always been: a marketplace of ideas, not a battleground of ethnic politics.
