Yoruba nation activist Sunday Adeyemo, widely known as Igboho, has urged the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, to consider dialogue with the Federal Government as a way to resolve his ongoing legal and political challenges.
In a statement released on Friday and signed by his counsel, Pelumi Olajengbesi, Igboho praised Kanu for his recent action in officially ending the long-standing Monday sit-at-home directive that has disrupted activities in the South-East for five years.
He described the suspension of the weekly lockdown as an important step toward restoring peace and normalcy in the region.
The statement read, “Chief Sunday Adeyemo wishes to commend the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, on his recent cancellation of the Monday sit-at-home across the South-East zone of Nigeria.
“Chief Igboho believes that the move by Mazi Kanu to end the five-year Monday economic siege on the South-East zone is thoughtful.”
Beyond welcoming the cancellation of the protest order, Igboho called for a shift in approach, encouraging Kanu to engage in meaningful dialogue and formal negotiations with the current government.
“Chief Igboho urge sthe IPOB leader to vigorously explore dialogue and mediation with the Federal Government to break the deadlock in his ordeal”, the statement said.
The Yoruba activist also voiced optimism that the government of President Bola Tinubu would respond positively to such overtures, stressing that a peaceful resolution is achievable if both sides negotiate in good faith.
“While it is the fundamental right of Mazi Kanu to pursue self-determination, Chief Igboho believes that the current administration of President Bola Tinubu is predisposed to negotiation and mutual understanding for the peace, shared prosperity, security and the deserved respect that the South-East commands”, the statement added.
The statement further condemned individuals or groups accused of taking advantage of unrest in the South-East for selfish interests.
Igboho warned that the “desecration” of the region must come to an end to pave the way for economic recovery and development.
“Chief Igboho also urges all those who make profits from the desecration and despoliation of the South-East through violence to desist from such acts in the interest of peace and economic prosperity of the region and the nation,” the statement added.
Igboho’s intervention underscores a moment of solidarity between the two prominent ethnic advocates, signaling a growing preference for negotiation and reconciliation as the path toward stability.
IPOB first announced the sit-at-home directive in August 2021 in protest against Kanu’s extradition to Nigeria and his ongoing detention.
