The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has called on security agencies, particularly the Department of State Services (DSS), to urgently summon—and possibly arrest—Sunday Adeyemo, popularly known as Sunday Igboho, over statements widely interpreted as threats against opposition politicians in the South-West.
The demand comes in the wake of a viral video and audio recording in which Igboho was alleged to have warned that political rivals of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu—including Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi—should not campaign in the region.
The remarks, which have sparked widespread outrage, were perceived by many as veiled threats capable of escalating political tensions.
In a strongly worded statement, National cordinator of the Association Emmanuel Nnadozie Onwubiko described the comments as “dangerous, unlawful, and capable of inciting violence,” warning that such rhetoric poses a direct threat to Nigeria’s fragile democratic climate ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The rights group stressed that Nigeria’s Constitution guarantees freedom of movement, association, and political participation, insisting that no individual or non-state actor has the authority to declare any part of the country off-limits for political engagement.
Raising historical concerns, HURIWA pointed to incidents during the 2023 elections, particularly in Lagos, where allegations of voter intimidation and ethnic profiling drew national condemnation. The group referenced controversies linked to Musiliu Akinsanya, noting that such episodes have continued to cast a shadow over the credibility of democratic processes in the region.
The association further argued that inflammatory political rhetoric—whether from activists or government-linked figures—has contributed to a growing atmosphere of intolerance, emboldening individuals to issue statements perceived as threats without fear of consequences.
According to HURIWA, failure by security agencies to act decisively risks reinforcing public perception of selective justice and could embolden further acts of political intimidation.
“Allowing such threats to go unchecked normalises lawlessness and undermines national unity,” the group said, warning of the broader implications for peace and stability.
It also raised concerns about what it described as emerging fears of coordinated efforts to suppress opposition activities in the South-West, cautioning that—even as allegations—such narratives must be addressed transparently to prevent erosion of public trust.
HURIWA warned that any attack on opposition figures or their supporters could trigger retaliatory tensions across regions, potentially deepening Nigeria’s already sensitive political fault lines.
The group therefore urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to publicly distance himself from individuals issuing threats in his name and to direct security agencies to act with neutrality and firmness.
“The President must reassure Nigerians that no group is being tacitly empowered to intimidate political opponents,” the statement added.
HURIWA concluded by calling on the DSS and the Nigeria Police Force to investigate the matter thoroughly and ensure accountability for all acts of political intimidation, regardless of affiliation.
Reaffirming its position, the group stressed that Nigeria’s unity and democratic future depend on safeguarding citizens’ rights everywhere in the country.
“No region should become a no-go area for political participation,” it said.
HURIWA Demands DSS Probe, Possible Arrest of Igboho Over Alleged Anti-Opposition Threats
