Hardship: Sunday Igboho Opposes Nationwide Protest

Yoruba Nation agitator, Chief Sunday Adeyemo, widely known as Sunday Igboho, has voiced his opposition to the nationwide protests planned for August 1, which aim to address the economic hardships facing the country.

In a statement issued late last night, Igboho stated, “I, Chief Sunday Igboho, am issuing this press release in response to the planned protests by some unknown and faceless individuals, who are working to disintegrate the country.”

Since President Bola Ahmed Tinubu assumed office on May 29, 2023, he has implemented revolutionary policies that his predecessors lacked the political will to pursue, Igboho noted. These bold steps, he argued, have unsettled those who believe it is their birthright to rule Nigeria, leading to attempts to undermine Tinubu’s administration, especially on social media.

Igboho highlighted recent notices from unknown individuals threatening ‘10 days of rage’ starting August 1, 2024, with the slogan ‘Tinubu Must Go!’. He emphasized that while the right to peaceful protest is enshrined in the constitution, it does not extend to calls for an unconstitutional regime change.

Reflecting on past protests, Igboho pointed out that during President Buhari’s eight-year tenure, there were no protests for regime change from the Southwest, even amid oppression and atrocities by Fulani terrorists. He stressed that past protests focused on protecting communities rather than destabilizing the country.

Igboho and the Yoruba Nation Movement have declared they will not participate in any protest aimed at using the Southwest as a battleground for political upheaval. He stated, “We stand resolute in our belief that the Yoruba nation will not be a launchpad for disintegrating Nigeria. We recognize that economic hardship is a global phenomenon, not unique to Nigeria.”

Igboho mentioned his travels since his release from detention, noting that everywhere, people are facing challenges, and governments are implementing palliatives. He commended PBAT’s government for measures to reduce food prices and increasing the minimum wage from ¦30,000 to ¦70,000, demonstrating a commitment to improving the lives of the working populace.

Calling the protest politically motivated, Igboho urged all Yoruba people and well-meaning Nigerians to reject the movement. “The Yoruba Nation unequivocally opposes any such protests,” he declared.

He emphasized that President Tinubu must be allowed to complete his term in office, stating that the path to change lies in democratic processes through the ballot box or a referendum. Those seeking change must wait until the next elections in 2027.

Igboho urged his members and the broader community to resist any temptation to participate in these protests, as they do not serve the interests of the Yoruba people or the nation as a whole. He also issued a stern warning against any individuals or groups attempting to instigate violence under the guise of these protests, advising them to stay off the streets across Yorubaland during the designated protest days and in the future.