Yoruba Nation activist, Chief Sunday Adeyemo, popularly known as Sunday Igboho, has stronger criticized prominent Islamic cleric, Sheikh Ahmad Gumi, following disparaging remarks credited to him where he allegedly labeled the Yoruba self-determination group as miscreants.
According to a statement issued on Wednesday by Igboho’s spokesperson, Olayomi Koiki, the controversial Islamic cleric had, during an Islamic lecture, equated calls for Biafra and Oduduwa Republics with the insurgency in the northern parts of the country and went ahead to describe their proponents as miscreants.
But in the statement, Igboho cautioned the Sheikh against making such disparaging comments about the Yoruba Nation activists, stressing that the aspirations of the self-determination group are distinct and should not be conflated with other regional issues.
Igboho stated that the push for Yoruba self-determination is further fueled by worsening insecurity, economic hardship, and systemic governance failures currently being experienced in the country, and reiterated that the Yoruba people have a legitimate right to determine their future and called for an end to dismissive or inflammatory rhetoric against their movement.
In the statement titled “Unwavering Commitment to the Yoruba Nation,” Igboho emphasised that the movement for Yoruba self-determination is resolute and has garnered substantial support among the Yoruba populace, and insisted that the activists were not miscreants but genuine lovers of Yoruba land who are desirous of a peaceful actualization of the Oduduwa Republic.
“Sheikh Ahmad Gumi recently characterized those agitating for Biafra and Oduduwa Republics as akin to Boko Haram insurgents, labeling them as “miscreants” and emphasizing that the majority of Nigerians desire unity and peace within a single nation,” the statement said.
“He further argued that the participation of millions in national elections indicates a collective preference for a united Nigeria. Gumi also pointed out that prominent Yoruba and Igbo leaders have not endorsed secessionist movements, suggesting that these agitations are driven by a minority with disruptive intentions.
“Sunday Igboho’s Rebuttal
“In a decisive response, Sunday Igboho, through his spokesman Olayomi Koiki, has addressed Sheikh Gumi’s remarks, underscoring the following key points:
“Igboho asserted that the Yoruba Nation is poised to establish itself as an independent entity, reflecting the collective will of its people.
“Escalating Insecurity and Economic Hardship:
“Highlighting the deteriorating security situation, Igboho lamented the incessant killings of innocent farmers and villagers in Yoruba land. He also pointed to the pervasive economic challenges, including widespread hardship and unemployment, as factors fueling the desire for self-governance.
“Systemic Governance Failures:
Igboho criticized the prevailing governance structure, citing bad governance and inadequate healthcare facilities as indicators of a failing system. He argued that these systemic issues have left the Yoruba people with no choice but to seek an alternative path that ensures their safety, prosperity, and cultural preservation.
“Preservation of Identity and Culture:
Emphasizing the importance of cultural identity, Igboho stated that the Yoruba people are determined to establish a nation where their heritage and traditions are respected and promoted.
“He asserted that self-determination is essential for the safety and well-being of current and future generations.
“Inclusivity and Immigration Policies:
Addressing concerns about inter-ethnic marriages and relationships, Igboho assured that individuals from other regions married to Yoruba persons would be accommodated within the framework of the new nation.
“He proposed that such matters would be amicably managed through immigration policies, ensuring unity and harmony.
“Advocacy for Freedom and Justice:
Igboho decried the lack of freedom of speech and the constraints imposed by what he described as a fraudulent constitution. He emphasized that the pursuit of self-determination is driven by a desire for justice, equity, and the protection of fundamental human rights.
“A Stern Warning to Sheikh Gumi
Concluding his statement, Sunday Igboho issued a stern warning to Sheikh Gumi, cautioning him against making derogatory remarks about the Yoruba Nation movement. He emphasized that the aspirations of the Yoruba people are distinct and should not be conflated with other regional issues. Igboho reiterated that the Yoruba Nation’s quest for self-determination is unwavering and must be respected.
“Conclusion
The exchange between Sheikh Ahmad Gumi and Dr. Chief Sunday Adeyemo underscores the deepening discourse on Nigeria’s unity and the growing calls for self-determination among various ethnic groups.
“As the nation grapples with challenges related to security, governance, and economic stability, it is imperative for all stakeholders to engage in constructive dialogue that addresses the concerns of all communities. The pursuit of peace, justice, and equity remains central to the aspirations of the Nigerian people.”
