Sunday Igboho, a prominent Yoruba nation activist, along with Professor Banji Akintoye, leader of the Ilana Omo Oodua movement, have vehemently denounced the recent invasion of the Oyo State government secretariat by suspected gunmen masquerading as members of the Yoruba nation group.
The brazen attack, which occurred at the Oyo State House of Assembly premises, sent shockwaves through the region as hoodlums dressed in army camouflage and reportedly armed with pump-action rifles and other weapons attempted to hoist the Yoruba nation flag. Their efforts were met with swift resistance from a combined team of law enforcement agencies, including policemen, military personnel, and operatives of the Amotekun security agency, leading to a tense standoff and a subsequent gun battle in the vicinity of the secretariat complex, Bodija, and nearby neighborhoods.
In response to the incident, Sunday Igboho issued a press statement distancing himself and his group from the violent act. He called on Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde to launch a thorough investigation into the invasion and ensure that the perpetrators are apprehended and prosecuted. Igboho condemned the gunmen’s actions as unlawful and senseless, emphasizing the need for justice to prevail.
Echoing Sunday Igboho’s sentiments, Professor Banji Akintoye reiterated his commitment to peace and security in the Southwest and Nigeria at large. He denounced the attack on the Oyo State government secretariat as absurd and barbaric, emphasizing that the Yoruba nation agitation he supports has always been peaceful. Akintoye urged security agencies to conduct a meticulous investigation into the incident and prosecute the sponsors and perpetrators with diligence.
Furthermore, Akintoye pointed fingers at a splinter group within the Yoruba nation agitation movement, accusing them of orchestrating the violent invasion. He emphasized the importance of pursuing self-determination through peaceful means, emphasizing that violence has no place in their struggle.
The incident has raised concerns about the potential for escalating tensions in the region, which has been grappling with various security challenges in recent times. The swift response of security forces in thwarting the attack underscores the need for continued vigilance and collaboration among stakeholders to maintain law and order.
Governor Seyi Makinde has yet to comment on the incident, but pressure is mounting on his administration to take decisive action in addressing the security situation and ensuring the safety of residents in Oyo State.
As investigations into the attack unfold, residents and stakeholders remain hopeful that justice will be served, and measures will be implemented to prevent similar incidents in the future. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the challenges facing the Yoruba nation agitation movement and the imperative of pursuing its goals through peaceful and lawful means.
