After a two-year legal battle with the Beninese government, Yoruba Nation activist Chief Sunday Adeyemo, also known as Sunday Igboho, has been released.
In a statement posted on his Instagram handle titled ‘My Release in Benin Republic’, Igboho confirmed his freedom and expressed gratitude to former President Olusegun Obasanjo, Nobel laureate Wole Soyinka, Professor Banji Akintoye, Ayo Adebanjo, and various traditional rulers for their contributions to securing his release.
Remember that Igboho was apprehended on Monday, July 19, 2021, by the International Criminal Police Organization at Cadjèhoun Airport in Cotonou, the Republic of Benin, while en route to Germany.
He left Nigeria following a violent raid on his residence in Soka, Ibadan, the capital of Oyo State, conducted by the Department of State Services (DSS). The DSS had alleged that he was hoarding weapons.
Igboho’s words, “First of all, my sincere appreciation goes to God almighty, the master of the universe for making this day. I want to say a big thank you to all Yoruba sons and daughters all over the world for their love and support before and after the loss of my dear mother, though she’s still kept at the morgue, waiting for me to come and give her the befitting burial that she deserves.”
“I give special thanks to President Talon of Benin Republic and all members of his cabinet. My gratitude goes to my heroic father, Professor Banji Akintoye, and Professor Wole Soyinka for their support in the course of the struggle. May God reward you Baba for your standing courageously for our Yoruba nation and me. You promised to stand by me through my ordeal in Benin Republic and you have fulfilled your promise.”
“I will not forget to appreciate former President Olusegun Obasanjo, and Baba Ayo Adebanjo for their roles, even though only God gives freedom. Let me use this opportunity to say thank you to all religious leaders, pastors, Muslim clerics, and traditional worshippers for their prayers day and night.”
“Our royal fathers, Obas, and Chiefs in Yoruba land, your love and support are so appreciated. But we need more of your support to deliver our lands from slavery because Yoruba land is ours.
“Although I have many Obas on my list, Olugbon of Orile Igbon and deputy chairman, Oyo State Council of Obas, Oba Francis Olushola Alao, Kabiesi Oba Topspin o ni Bariga of Bariga, Oba Tejuoso, Oni Kenta of Orile Kenta, Olugbo of Ugbo kingdom, Oba Fredrick Akinruntan Obateru, thanks immensely for your love.”
“I must not forget to appreciate the Megarally USA under Prophet Ologunloluwa and the Directorate under the leadership of Barrister Ogedengbe. Special thanks to Ilana Omo Oodua, Canada, and Igbega Omo Oodua USA and Canada.”