Sunday Igboho Makes Dramatic Return to Nigeria Following Royal Mediation
In a significant development that marks the end of nearly four years in self-exile, prominent Yoruba nation activist Chief Sunday Adeyemo, widely known as Sunday Igboho, has returned to Nigeria. His homecoming comes after traditional rulers successfully intervened to have his name removed from Nigeria's most wanted list, paving the way for his unhindered return to the country.
Royal Intervention Clears Path for Return
The breakthrough in Igboho's case was achieved through the persistent efforts of respected Yoruba monarchs who persuaded President Bola Tinubu to approve the removal of Igboho's name from the wanted persons list. According to Igboho's spokesman, Olayomi Koiki, the intervention was spearheaded by prominent traditional rulers including the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja; the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi; and the Olugbon of Orile Igbon, Oba Francis Alao.
Koiki confirmed that all arrangements had been completed following this royal mediation, stating that Igboho was en route from Benin Republic and expected to arrive in Ibadan imminently. The spokesman emphasized that Igboho was no longer being sought by Nigerian authorities, attributing this outcome to royal mediation, political goodwill, and sustained advocacy by Yoruba leaders both at home and abroad.
Security Deployment and Supporters' Gathering
Ahead of Igboho's arrival, security agencies deployed personnel around his residence in the Soka area of Ibadan. Detachments of police officers and other security personnel were stationed at strategic points within the neighborhood as a precautionary measure. Despite the security presence, supporters of the Yoruba nation activist converged on his residence to welcome him home.
Members of various Yoruba socio-cultural organizations, including the Oodua Peoples' Congress, Agbekoya Vigilante Group, and Ifelodun Security Network, were seen at the location awaiting his arrival. The gathering represented a show of solidarity for the activist, whose return is viewed by supporters as a significant homecoming event.
Planned Homage to Traditional Rulers
Upon his arrival, Igboho was scheduled to proceed directly to the palace of the Olubadan of Ibadanland to pay homage and formally acknowledge the monarch's crucial role in facilitating his return. This visit underscores the importance of traditional institutions in mediating complex political and security matters within the Nigerian context.
Igboho's last known presence in Nigeria was in 2024 when he attended his late mother's burial ceremony. Since then, he had remained in self-exile, previously explaining that he could not return to Nigeria while still on the federal government's wanted list. The removal of this status represents a significant shift in his circumstances and opens a new chapter in his activism and engagement with Nigerian authorities.
The successful mediation by traditional rulers highlights the continuing relevance of Nigeria's monarchical institutions in conflict resolution and political negotiation. It also demonstrates how cultural leaders can bridge gaps between activists and government authorities, creating pathways for reconciliation and peaceful resolution of longstanding disputes.
