DSS Asked to Arrest Igboho Over Threats to Block Atiku, Obi’s Campaigns in Yoruba Land

The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has called on security agencies to act against Yoruba Nation agitator, Sunday Adeyemo, popularly known as Sunday Igboho, over alleged threats targeting opposition politicians.

The group urged the Department of State Services (DSS) to invite Igboho for questioning and possibly arrest him if found culpable.

This follows the circulation of a viral video and audio in which he 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 released on Monday, HURIWA’s National Coordinator, Emmanuel Onwubiko, described the development as a serious threat to Nigeria’s democracy.

“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 Nigeria’s constitution guarantees freedom of movement and political participation for all citizens. It said no individual has the legal authority to restrict campaigns or political activities in any part of the country.

HURIWA warned that such remarks, if left unchecked, could deepen political tension and create fear among voters and candidates. It added that early signs of intimidation must not be ignored, especially as political activities begin to gather momentum ahead of the next general elections.

The group also linked the development to what it described as a pattern of political intimidation in the South-West. It recalled incidents during the 2023 elections where threats were allegedly made against certain groups of voters.

It specifically referenced controversies involving Lagos transport union leader, Musiliu Akinsanya, also known as MC Oluomo, who faced backlash over comments seen as targeting non-indigenous voters, particularly Igbos, during the governorship election.

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

HURIWA further expressed concern over what it called rising inflammatory rhetoric among political actors. It mentioned comments from presidential spokesperson Bayo Onanuga, warning that such narratives could encourage more threats and hostility in the political space.

The group insisted that both the DSS and the Nigeria Police Force must take immediate steps to investigate the matter. It said any failure to act could send a wrong signal that some individuals are above the law.

“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.

HURIWA also warned that if such threats continue, they could trigger reactions in other regions and further divide the country along ethnic and political lines.

The organisation called on President Bola Tinubu to clearly distance himself from any form of threat issued in his name. It urged him to reassure Nigerians that democratic rights would be protected across all regions.

“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.”

The group concluded by stressing that Nigeria’s unity depends on protecting democratic freedoms. It maintained that every Nigerian has the right to campaign, vote, and participate in politics without fear.

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