Chief Sunday Adeyemo, widely known as Sunday Igboho, is expected to return to Nigeria following what his spokesperson described as royal approval and sustained advocacy by Yoruba leaders. The announcement was made on Saturday by Olayomi Koiki, who said the development has the backing of the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Akanmu Ladoja.
Koiki stated that the traditional ruler’s support, along with political goodwill and continued interventions by Yoruba leaders at home and abroad, has paved the way for Igboho’s return. He added that the activist is no longer being sought by authorities and is free to come back to the country.
According to the statement, arrangements are ongoing for his homecoming, although no specific date has been confirmed. The spokesperson described the anticipated return as peaceful and dignified, expressing optimism that it would be welcomed across Ibadanland and the wider Yoruba region.
Igboho rose to prominence between 2020 and 2021 as a prominent advocate for Yoruba self-determination and a vocal critic of insecurity in the South-West. His residence in Ibadan was raided by security operatives in July 2021, after which he fled the country, citing threats to his life. He was later arrested in Cotonou while attempting to travel to Europe, an incident that sparked protests and campaigns by his supporters.
His case attracted international attention and was taken to regional legal platforms, including the ECOWAS Court of Justice, where allegations of human rights violations were raised. Since his departure, traditional rulers, activists, and members of the Yoruba diaspora have continued to push for his freedom and safe return.
Koiki also expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Yoruba monarchs, and supporters worldwide for their roles during Igboho’s years in exile, adding that more details about his return would be released soon.
