OYO, Nigeria — Yoruba activist Sunday Igboho has issued a stern warning to the Fulani community in his hometown of Igboho, Oyo State, over alleged involvement in kidnapping and other criminal activities, vowing that his community will no longer tolerate acts of banditry in the area.
In a video message that has gone viral on social media, Igboho addressed members of the Fulani community residing in Igboho, warning them to desist from any form of criminality, including kidnapping, cattle rustling, and other forms of violence. He declared that his hometown would not be a safe haven for kidnappers and criminals, regardless of their ethnic background.
“You can’t be kidnapping in my hometown. Igboho is my home, and we will not allow anyone to turn it into a den of criminals,” Igboho said in the video. “We have nothing against the Fulani people, but we will not tolerate those who use their identity to commit crimes and terrorise our people.”
The activist’s warning comes amid growing concerns over insecurity in parts of Oyo State, particularly in the Oke-Ogun area, where Igboho is located. Residents have reported incidents of kidnapping, armed robbery, and communal clashes in recent months, prompting calls for increased security presence and community vigilance.
Igboho, who has been at the forefront of agitation for Yoruba self-determination and against herdsmen attacks in the South-West, urged residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to security agencies. He also called on the government to intensify efforts to address the root causes of insecurity in the region.
The Fulani community in Igboho has not yet issued an official response to Igboho’s warning. However, community leaders have previously condemned the involvement of any individuals in criminal activities and have called for peaceful coexistence between all ethnic groups in the area.
The Oyo State Police Command has not commented on Igboho’s video message. However, the command has previously reassured residents of its commitment to maintaining law and order in the state, particularly in areas affected by banditry and kidnapping.
As the debate over insecurity in the South-West continues, Igboho’s warning serves as a reminder of the growing frustration among communities affected by criminal activities. For now, the message is clear: communities are no longer willing to remain passive in the face of insecurity, and they are ready to take a stand against those who threaten their peace and safety.
