Popular Yoruba Nation activist, Sunday Adeyemo, widely known as Sunday Igboho, has alleged that certain politicians are sponsoring kidnapping activities in Oyo State and warned that he may publicly expose those involved if the attacks continue.
Igboho made the allegation on Wednesday while receiving newly elected executives of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), led by President Akinteye Bàbàtunde, at his residence in the Soka area of Ibadan.
Speaking in a video that has since gained traction online, the activist claimed he possesses information about individuals allegedly providing financial and logistical support to criminal groups operating within the state.
According to him, those behind the abductions are supplying weapons and funding to kidnappers and bandits in a bid to destabilize the country and undermine the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
“I know the politicians behind these activities, and if they refuse to stop, I will reveal their identities. They are the ones providing money and ammunition to these criminal elements,” he said.
Igboho further alleged that some individuals were deliberately attempting to create insecurity in Nigeria, drawing parallels with challenges experienced during the administration of former President Goodluck Jonathan.
The activist also maintained that he possesses the capacity to confront criminal elements operating in forested areas across the South-West but claimed that his efforts have not received the necessary approval from the Oyo State Government.
He disclosed that he volunteered to assist in the rescue of pupils and teachers abducted during the recent attack on schools in Oriire Local Government Area but was reportedly advised against intervening.
According to him, government officials informed him that the abductors had threatened to harm the captives if he attempted a rescue operation.
“If I am permitted to enter their hideouts, they will flee. These criminals are human beings and can be dislodged. If authorities allow my team to pursue them into the forests, we will drive them out,” he stated.
Igboho also denied allegations that he demanded money from the Oyo State Government in relation to the rescue efforts, insisting that his interest has always been the safety and freedom of the victims.
He revealed that his security outfit, known as “Iru Ekun,” had received federal approval but alleged that state authorities restricted its operations within Oyo State.
Expressing concern over the plight of abducted schoolchildren and teachers, the activist called for decisive action against criminal groups and urged authorities to intensify efforts to secure the release of all victims.
The comments come amid heightened concerns over insecurity in parts of Oyo State following the abduction of dozens of pupils and teachers during coordinated attacks on schools in Oriire Local Government Area on May 15, 2026.
The affected institutions included Baptist Nursery and Primary School, Yawota; Community Grammar School, Esiele; and L.A. Primary School, incidents that sparked widespread outrage and renewed calls for stronger security measures across the state.
