Yoruba Nation activist Sunday Igboho has defended his stance on insecurity, insisting that his campaign for safer communities is aimed at criminals and not any particular ethnic group.
His reaction comes after the Concerned Fulani People of Nigeria (CFPN) called on President Bola Tinubu and Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde to caution him over recent comments linked to insecurity in the South-West.
Responding through his spokesman, Olayomi Koiki, Igboho dismissed the criticism and maintained that his focus has always been on combating kidnapping, banditry, killings and other violent crimes affecting communities.
According to him, efforts to tackle insecurity should not be viewed through ethnic, religious or political lenses, but as a collective responsibility aimed at protecting innocent lives.
“We will never advocate hatred against any ethnic group. Our position has always been very clear: criminals should be identified, arrested and prosecuted regardless of their ethnic, religious or political inclinations.”
Igboho argued that portraying his comments as ethnic profiling was misleading, stressing that his concern remains the safety and welfare of residents threatened by criminal activities.
He further called on Nigerians to unite against insecurity rather than allow divisive narratives to distract from the real issues affecting communities across the country.
The activist also commended security agencies, including the Nigeria Police Force and the Department of State Services (DSS), for ongoing efforts to combat criminal networks.
According to him, ensuring security should not be left to government alone, as citizens and communities also have important roles to play in supporting peace and law enforcement efforts.
Igboho urged individuals and groups criticising him to focus their attention on supporting stronger action against criminals instead of turning the security challenge into an ethnic debate.
He maintained that lasting peace can only be achieved through national unity, effective policing and a firm commitment to confronting crime wherever it occurs.
Source: Statement by Sunday Igboho’s spokesman, Olayomi Koiki
