IBADAN, OYO STATE — Popular security activist Sunday Adeyemo, known as Sunday Igboho, has accused Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde of stopping him from rescuing the schoolchildren and teachers kidnapped in the Oriire Local Government Area.
The public disagreement comes as anger grows across the country over mass school abductions, with victims still being held in thick forests.
The Fight Over “Iru Ekun” Security Network
Speaking during a visit by student leaders, Igboho stated that his private security team has the training and manpower to enter the forests and free the hostages. However, he claimed the Oyo State Government has refused to give him the necessary permission to move into the area.
“Governor Seyi Makinde knows I have the capacity to rescue the Oriire kidnapping victims, so why hasn’t he granted me permission?” Igboho asked. “I established the ‘Iru Ekun’ Security Network with federal approval, but the state government disapproved.”
Igboho insisted that his motivation is purely humanitarian, stating that he is not demanding any financial payment from the government to carry out the operation.
Serious Claims Against Politicians
The activist went further to claim that the recent rise in kidnappings across the Southwest is being organized and funded by desperate political figures looking to cause trouble.
“They are not evil spirits; they are humans,” Igboho warned. “Some politicians are backing them. They supply them money and ammunition. If the politicians supporting them don’t stop, I will mention their names for the world to see.”
He argued that these criminal gangs are being used as political proxies, which explains why state officials are hesitant to allow independent local security groups to clear out the forests.
State Government Explains Restrictions
Governor Seyi Makinde has previously explained that while the state is working hard to free the victims, it must follow strict legal procedures. Officials note that state governors do not have full control over the military or federal police, and allowing unauthorized private armed groups to launch operations could create confusion and danger in active search zones.
With teachers across Nigeria currently on strike over poor school safety, community leaders are warning that the political arguments between the government and local activists are only delaying the safe return of the children and their teachers.
