Yoruba nation agitator, Sunday Adeyemo, has pushed back against criticisms from human rights activist and former presidential candidate, Omoyele Sowore, dismissing remarks that described his political stance and activism as “transactional.”
The rebuttal followed a viral video in which Sowore criticised what he termed “transactional politics” among certain regional figures and influencers, alleging that some had compromised their principles by aligning with political interests for personal or material gain. In the video, Sowore appeared to allude to Igboho, linking his recent political expressions—including support for the possible re-election of Bola Ahmed Tinubu—to what he called “amala politics,” a phrase commonly used to suggest opportunistic engagement.
Responding through a statement issued in Ibadan by his media aide, Olayomi Koiki, Igboho dismissed the claim as baseless and unworthy of public attention, describing it as an inconsequential outburst.
Igboho maintained that his advocacy—particularly around security concerns in the South-West—and his political choices remain within his constitutional rights and are driven by the collective interests of the Yoruba people.
He said, “We strongly reject the characterisation of Igboho’s activism as transactional. Such a myopic position misrepresents the intent and focus of our agitation on effective grassroots security in the South-West and Nigeria as a whole.
“How many protests did Sowore organise to push for my freedom? Sowore’s claim of fighting for the masses contradicts his alleged daily lodging expenses of N450,000 at a popular Lagos hotel.
“I cannot be compelled to endorse political figures such as Peter Obi or Atiku Abubakar, or even align with Sowore’s political platform. I have the right to make independent political decisions based on the security and collective interests of the Yoruba people.”
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The statement further emphasised that Igboho’s movement is primarily focused on tackling insecurity across Yorubaland, including attacks on farmers, kidnappings on highways, and threats to traditional rulers and institutions.
Koiki clarified that the agitation is not driven by any political ambition but rather by a commitment to protecting lives and communities.
The statement added, “While Sowore has consistently promoted nationwide revolution as a pathway to leadership, Igboho’s approach is rooted in protecting lives, land and property within Yoruba territory. This agitation is a response to real and ongoing threats faced by communities in the region.
“Latest security incidents in northern Nigeria, including reported explosions in Maiduguri on March 16, 2026, also raise questions about the broader effectiveness of long-term revolutionary advocacy.
“We challenge Sowore to assess the situation in his home state of Ondo State, considering the growing cases of banditry, kidnapping and attacks on rural communities.”
It also highlighted the devastating impact of insecurity on vulnerable groups such as farmers, women, children, and traditional rulers across affected communities.
“These realities reinforce Igboho’s long-standing call since 2020 for localised security measures and stronger regional protection strategies.
“Labelling our agitation and efforts as ‘amala politics’ undermines the urgency of the security crisis and the legitimacy of grassroots agitation,” the statement concluded.