Yoruba nation activist, Sunday Adeyemo, widely known as Sunday Igboho, has called on President Bola Tinubu to caution Vice President Kashim Shettima against making further critical remarks about Kemi Badenoch, the leader of the British Conservative Party and a prominent political figure of Yoruba heritage.
In a statement personally signed by Igboho and made public in Osogbo on Sunday, he expressed concern over Shettima’s alleged verbal attacks on Badenoch. The Vice President’s comments reportedly stemmed from Badenoch’s earlier remarks about corruption in Nigeria and her decision to differentiate herself from Northern Nigeria’s socio-political narrative.
Igboho argued that Badenoch had done nothing wrong in expressing her perspective on corruption, a pervasive issue that continues to hinder Nigeria’s development. He emphasized that constructive criticism should not attract unwarranted hostility.
“It is imperative for President Bola Tinubu, as a Yoruba leader, to urge Vice President Kashim Shettima to focus on his constitutional duties rather than engage in a needless war of words with Kemi Badenoch,” Igboho stated. “Her observations about corruption in Nigeria’s system are both candid and truthful. She has not committed any offense by voicing her opinions.”
Drawing Parallels with the Buhari Administration
The activist further highlighted perceived disparities in how ethnic identities were treated under the previous administration led by Muhammadu Buhari. Igboho alleged that during Buhari’s tenure, any criticism of the Fulani ethnic group was met with swift and severe consequences.
Recalling his own experiences, he said, “During my agitation against the destruction of farmlands, killings, and acts of sexual violence by Fulani herders, security agents raided my residence on July 1, 2021, under Buhari’s orders, resulting in the deaths of two people and the arrest of 13 others. This government must uphold the same standard of respect for every ethnic group, including the Yoruba.”
Igboho expressed disappointment in the Federal Government’s failure to address pressing national issues such as widespread poverty, insecurity, and economic hardship. Instead of focusing on these challenges, he criticized Shettima for diverting energy toward targeting Badenoch.
“Millions of Nigerians are grappling with harrowing poverty, kidnappings, and a breakdown of security. Yet, rather than deploy solutions to alleviate these challenges, the Vice President has chosen to channel his attention toward attacking Badenoch,” Igboho added.
Defending Badenoch’s Perspective
Igboho strongly defended Badenoch’s right to express her views, stating, “When did it become a crime for someone to highlight the devastating impact of corruption on Nigeria’s growth? Badenoch has committed no offense by proclaiming her Yoruba identity and stating facts about Nigeria’s challenges. The Vice President should concentrate on his responsibilities instead of chasing shadows.”
A Call for Presidential Intervention
The activist concluded by urging President Tinubu to take immediate steps to address the situation. He implored the President to ensure that Vice President Shettima refrains from further confrontational comments and instead focuses on the pressing responsibilities of his office.
“This administration has an opportunity to unify Nigerians and tackle the critical issues affecting the nation. President Tinubu must guide his Vice President toward prioritizing governance over unnecessary verbal conflicts,” Igboho remarked.
This incident highlights the growing tensions surrounding national discourse on corruption, ethnic identity, and governance priorities. Observers will closely monitor how the Tinubu administration navigates these challenges in the coming months.
Hobnob News will continue to provide updates on this developing story.
