Popular Yoruba nation activist, Sunday Adeyemo, widely known as Sunday Igboho, has claimed he has the capacity to rescue the abducted schoolchildren and teachers in Oyo State but has not received approval from Governor Seyi Makinde to carry out such an operation.
Speaking during a meeting with a delegation led by the President of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), Akinteye Babatunde Afeez, Igboho expressed frustration over the continued captivity of the victims kidnapped during the attack on schools in Oriire Local Government Area.
According to him, he had already informed relevant authorities, including the Minister of Defence, of his willingness to enter the forest and confront the kidnappers directly.
“I’m boasting, I can tackle these kidnappers. I swear by my Creator, they will run away. They are not evil spirits; they are human beings,” Igboho declared.
The activist further alleged that some politicians were secretly supporting criminal groups responsible for kidnappings and insecurity, warning that he may publicly expose those involved if the situation persists.
“Some politicians are backing them. I have said that if the politicians supporting them don’t stop, I will mention their names,” he said.
Igboho also questioned why his security outfit, Iru Ekun Security Network, has been unable to operate fully in Oyo State despite receiving federal approval. He accused the state government of introducing restrictions that have prevented his team from taking action against kidnappers and other criminal elements.
“The governor knows that I have the capacity to do something about it. Why is he not allowing me to face them?” he asked.
He argued that his team volunteered to assist in tackling insecurity and should not require additional approvals before helping to protect communities under threat.
The comments come amid growing outrage over the abduction of dozens of students and teachers from three schools in Oriire LGA on May 15. The incident sparked nationwide protests and renewed calls for stronger action to secure the release of the victims.
Days after the abduction, one of the kidnapped teachers, Michael Oyedokun, was reportedly killed by the abductors, further intensifying public concern and pressure on authorities.
Meanwhile, the Oyo State Government has maintained that security operations are ongoing and that all efforts are being made to secure the safe release of the remaining victims.
