Yoruba nation agitator, Sunday Adeyemo, popularly known as Sunday Igboho, has dismissed remarks by activist and former presidential candidate Omoyele Sowore over what he described as “transactional politics.”
The response follows a viral video in which Sowore criticised certain regional agitators and influencers, accusing them of aligning with political actors for personal gain. In the clip, he appeared to reference Igboho, describing his recent political stance as “amala politics” — a term often used to suggest opportunistic engagement.
Reacting through his media aide, Olayomi Koiki, in Ibadan, Igboho dismissed the claim as baseless and urged the public to disregard it.
He maintained that his advocacy, including support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s potential re-election bid in 2027, is rooted in constitutional rights and driven by the need to protect the interests of the Yoruba people.
“We strongly reject the characterisation of Igboho’s activism as transactional. Such a position misrepresents the intent of our agitation, which is focused on grassroots security in the South-West and Nigeria as a whole,” the statement said.
Igboho also questioned Sowore’s record of support during his period of detention, while criticising what he described as contradictions in the activist’s public stance.
He insisted that his political choices remain independent, stating that he cannot be compelled to support figures such as Peter Obi or Atiku Abubakar, nor align with Sowore’s platform.
According to the statement, Igboho’s movement is primarily focused on addressing insecurity in the South-West, including kidnappings, attacks on farmers, and threats to traditional institutions.
The aide emphasised that the agitation is not driven by political ambition but by the need to safeguard lives and property in Yoruba communities.
While contrasting approaches, the statement noted that Sowore has consistently advocated for nationwide revolution, whereas Igboho’s efforts are centred on regional security solutions.
It also pointed to recent security challenges in parts of the country, including incidents in Maiduguri, as evidence of broader national concerns.
The statement concluded that labelling Igboho’s efforts as “amala politics” undermines the seriousness of the security challenges facing communities and the legitimacy of grassroots agitation.
