Sunday Igboho Set for Return to Nigeria After Years in Self-Exile

Yoruba Nation Agitator Cleared for Homecoming

Sunday Adeyemo, widely known as Sunday Igboho, a prominent Yoruba Nation agitator, is reportedly preparing for his return to Nigeria after an extended period of self-exile. His spokesperson, Olayomi Koiki, confirmed that arrangements for his homecoming are underway, stating that Igboho is 'now cleared to return to Nigeria and is no longer being sought by government authorities.'

The anticipated return marks a significant development following years of legal and political complexities surrounding his activism for Yoruba self-determination. While no specific date has been announced, further details regarding his travel are expected to be made public in the coming days.

Intervention by Traditional Rulers

The breakthrough in Igboho's situation is largely attributed to the intervention of influential traditional rulers in the South-West region of Nigeria. Key figures who played instrumental roles in securing his clearance include:

• The Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja
• The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, Ojaja II
• The Olugbon of Orile Igbon, Oba Francis Alao

These monarchs reportedly engaged with the administration of President Bola Tinubu to facilitate the removal of Igboho's name from the government's wanted list and ensure his peaceful reintegration into Nigerian society.

Background to Self-Exile and Detention

Sunday Igboho rose to national prominence in January 2021 when he issued a seven-day ultimatum to Fulani herdsmen in Ibarapa, Oyo State, demanding their eviction following alleged attacks on local farmers. This action positioned him as a leading voice in the Yoruba self-determination movement.

His self-exile began after a raid on his Ibadan residence by operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) on July 1, 2021. The DSS alleged that Igboho was stockpiling arms and ammunition, an accusation he denied. The raid resulted in the deaths of two of his associates and the arrest of 13 others. Igboho subsequently fled to the Benin Republic, where he was arrested at Cotonou Airport on July 19, 2021, while attempting to travel to Germany. He was detained in the Benin Republic for nearly two years before his release in March 2022.

Previous Appeals and Current Outlook

In 2025, Igboho publicly expressed his weariness with exile during a visit to the Olugbon of Orile-Igbon, appealing to President Tinubu's government to remove his name from the wanted list. He maintained that he was not a criminal and highlighted how the wanted declaration had restricted his ability to use his Nigerian passport and access his bank accounts, despite favorable court rulings. His camp has expressed appreciation to President Tinubu, Yoruba monarchs, and supporters worldwide for their efforts during his time away from home.