Sunday Igboho Freed From Benin Republic Jail, Declines Return To Nigeria

Prominent Yoruba Nation activist, Sunday Adeyemo, also known as Sunday Igboho, has been released from prison in Benin Republic after a two-year detention.

Igboho, who had sought refuge in Benin Republic to evade Nigerian authorities, was apprehended and held in custody for several months.

He also faced a trial initiated by the Benin Republic Government.

Following his release, Igboho has announced his freedom through a statement accompanied by a video recording.

However, contrary to expectations, he has decided not to return to Nigeria.

Accompanied by Yoruba leader Prof. Banji Akintoye, Igboho plans to travel to Germany to reunite with his family.

According to The Eagle Online, Igboho was arrested on July 19, 2021 by the International Criminal Police Organisation at the Cadjèhoun Airport in Cotonou, Republic of Benin on his way to Germany.

This was after he fled Nigeria following a raid on his residence in Soka area of Ibadan, the Oyo State capital, by operatives of the Department of State Services.

The raid led to the death of no fewer than two persons.

In the statement he released on Sunday, Igboho said: “First of all, my sincere appreciation goes to God almighty, the master of the universe for making this day. I want to say a big thank you to all Yoruba sons and daughters all over the world for their love and support before and after the loss of my dear mother, though she’s still kept at the morgue, waiting for me to come and give her the befitting burial that she deserves.

“I give special thanks to President Talon of Benin Republic and to all members of his cabinet. My gratitude goes to my heroic father, Prof. Banji Akintoye, and Prof. Wole Soyinka for their support in the course of the struggle. May God reward you Baba for your standing courageously for our Yoruba nation and me. You promised to stand by me through my ordeal in Benin Republic and you have fulfilled your promise.”

“I will not forget to appreciate former President Olusegun Obasanjo, Baba Ayo Adebanjo for their roles, even though only God gives freedom. Let me take this opportunity to say thank you to all religious leaders, pastors, Muslim clerics and traditional worshippers for their prayers day and night.

“Our royal fathers, obas and chiefs in Yoruba land, your love and support are so appreciated. But we need more of your support to deliver our lands from slavery because Yoruba land is ours.

“Although I have many Obas on my list, Olugbon of Orile Igbon and deputy chairman, Oyo State Council of Obas, Oba Francis Olushola Alao, Kabiesi Oba Topspin o ni Bariga of Bariga, Oba Tejuoso, Oni Kenta of Orile Kenta, Olugbo of Ugbo kingdom, Oba Fredrick Akinruntan Obateru, thanks immensely for your love.

“I must not forget to appreciate the mega rally USA under Prophet Ologunloluwa and the Directorate under the leadership of Barrister Ogedengbe. Special thanks to Ilana Omo Oodua, Canada and Igbega Omo Oodua USA and Canada.

“Chief Dele Momodu, I really appreciate you, sir, thank you so much. Special thanks to all media outlets; both print and electronic, including online media.

To all our political class and Obas in Yoruba land, let’s join hands to make Yoruba great. All my brothers from the East, I appreciate your support.”