By Yusuf Danjuma Yunusa
The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has called on the Department of State Services (DSS) to immediately invite—and, if necessary, arrest—Yoruba Nation agitator Sunday Adeyemo over alleged threats directed at opposition politicians in the South-West.
The call follows the circulation of a viral video and audio clip in which Adeyemo, popularly known as Sunday Igboho, was reportedly heard warning that political opponents of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, including Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi, should not campaign in Yorubaland.
In a statement, HURIWA’s National Coordinator, Emmanuel Onwubiko, described the alleged remarks as a serious threat to Nigeria’s democratic order, warning that such rhetoric could incite political violence if not addressed promptly.
“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,” the group said.
The organisation stressed that no individual has the constitutional authority to restrict political activities or movement in any part of the country, noting that Nigeria’s democracy guarantees citizens the rights to freedom of association and political participation.
HURIWA also warned that the development reflects a troubling pattern of political intimidation in the South-West, referencing controversies during the 2023 Nigerian general election.
The group cited incidents linked to Musiliu Akinsanya, popularly known as MC Oluomo, who faced backlash over alleged threats against non-indigenous voters—particularly Igbos—during the Lagos governorship election.
“Allowing individuals to openly threaten opposition figures without consequences risks normalising political violence and undermining national unity,” the statement added.
HURIWA further expressed concern over what it described as inflammatory rhetoric from political actors, including presidential spokesperson Bayo Onanuga, warning that such narratives could embolden further threats across the country.
The group urged both the DSS and the Nigeria Police Force to invite Adeyemo for questioning and take appropriate legal action if the allegations are substantiated.
“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,” HURIWA stated.
The organisation cautioned that unchecked threats could escalate into violence and provoke retaliatory actions in other parts of the country, thereby deepening existing national tensions.
It also called on President Tinubu to publicly distance himself from any individual or group issuing threats in his name.
“The President must take urgent steps to reassure Nigerians that no group is being empowered, directly or indirectly, to intimidate or attack political opponents. Silence or inaction could be interpreted as endorsement,” the group said.
HURIWA warned that Nigeria’s unity depends on the protection of democratic freedoms, insisting that no region should be turned into a no-go area for citizens seeking political support.
