Igboho Rejects Sowore, Defends Activism, Political Support for Tinubu

Yoruba nation agitator Sunday Adeyemo, popularly known as Sunday Igboho, has rejected claims by human rights activist and former presidential candidate Omoyele Sowore that his activism and political positions are “transactional politics”. Igboho said Sowore’s remarks misrepresent his work and undermine his efforts to address insecurity in the South‑West and promote Nigeria’s growth.

Sowore made the comment in a viral social media video, accusing some regional agitators and influencers of aligning with political actors for personal or material gain. He suggested that Igboho’s public support for President Bola Tinubu’s potential 2027 re‑election bid reflected opportunistic engagement rather than principled activism.

In response, Igboho’s media aide, Olayomi Koiki, issued a statement from Ibadan, Oyo State, dismissing Sowore’s remarks as insignificant and unworthy of public attention. Igboho emphasised that his advocacy and political positions are constitutional rights, aimed at advancing the collective interests of the Yoruba people and improving security across the region.

READ ALSO:

• Sadio Mané Slams CAF After Senegal Stripped of 2025 AFCON Title
• Amuwo-Odofin Council Manager Dies in India After Prolonged Illness
• UK state visit: First Lady Remi Tinubu to preach at Lambeth Palace

Igboho explained that his support for Tinubu and his activism are rooted in addressing real security challenges in Yorubaland, including killings of farmers, highway kidnappings, and attacks on traditional rulers and royal institutions. Koiki stressed that these issues, rather than any personal ambition, are the foundation of the Igboho movement.

Highlighting Sowore’s credibility, Igboho questioned how many protests Sowore organised to secure his freedom and noted inconsistencies between his daily lifestyle and his claimed advocacy for the masses. He asserted his right to independent political choices, stating that he cannot be compelled to endorse other political figures such as Peter Obi or Atiku Abubakar.

Igboho also pointed to recent security incidents in northern Nigeria, including explosions in Maiduguri, as evidence of the need for localized approaches to protect communities. He insisted that labeling his activism as “amala politics” undermines the urgency of the security crisis and the legitimacy of grassroots efforts.

The dispute underscores tensions within Nigeria’s activist and political networks over strategy, ideology, and engagement with mainstream politics, particularly as the country approaches the 2027 general elections.

Igboho Rejects Sowore, Defends Activism, Political Support for Tinubu

Army Repels Boko Haram/ISWAP Attack, Neutralises 63 Fighters in Borno

The Nigerian Army has confirmed that its troops successfully repelled a coordinated assault by Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) fighters, killing at least 63 insurgents in Mallam Fatori, Borno State. The clash occurred at the 68 Battalion Main Defensive Area in Abadam Local Government Area early Wednesday.

According to the army, insurgents launched a pre-dawn attack with the intent of overrunning the military base. Troops responded decisively with heavy ground fire, air support, and defensive maneuvers, forcing the militants to retreat after sustaining significant casualties. The military has released video evidence showing lifeless bodies of insurgents, recovered weapons, and the aftermath of the failed attack, confirming the scale of losses inflicted on the terrorists.

While the army reported 63 insurgents neutralised, some sources suggest the number could be higher, with up to 80 militants, including commanders, killed in the operation. Officials also confirmed that troops are conducting follow-up operations to track fleeing insurgents, disrupt supply routes, and prevent regrouping.

READ ALSO:

• Amuwo-Odofin Council Manager Dies in India After Prolonged Illness
• UK state visit: First Lady Remi Tinubu to preach at Lambeth Palace
• Court Confirms Nigerians’ Right to Record Police During Stop-and-Search Operations

Mallam Fatori, a border town near Niger Republic, has become a hotspot for insurgent activity due to its strategic location. The attack comes amid a surge in violence across northeastern Nigeria, including multiple suicide bombings in Maiduguri, which killed over 20 civilians earlier this week. Boko Haram and ISWAP factions have intensified assaults on both military targets and civilian areas in recent months, making the region increasingly volatile.

The Nigerian Army reaffirmed its commitment to ongoing counter-insurgency operations under Operation Hadin Kai, aimed at dismantling terrorist networks in the Lake Chad Basin and protecting vulnerable communities. Officials stressed that security forces will continue to safeguard residents, strengthen intelligence operations, and prevent future attacks.

The conflict has displaced thousands of residents and strained local infrastructure, with analysts warning that insurgents may adapt to military tactics by increasing the use of drones and coordinated raids. Despite these challenges, the army’s decisive response demonstrates improved operational readiness and resilience in counter-terrorism efforts. Residents and security experts have lauded the troops for their professionalism and swift action, while emphasizing the need for continued vigilance to prevent further insurgent incursions.

Army Repels Boko Haram/ISWAP Attack, Neutralises 63 Fighters in Borno

Court Confirms Nigerians’ Right to Record Police During Stop-and-Search Operations

A High Court in Nigeria has ruled that Nigerians can legally record police officers during stop-and-search operations, reinforcing citizens’ rights, police accountability, and transparency.

In the landmark judgment, the court affirmed that filming or documenting interactions with officers of the Nigeria Police Force is not a criminal offence, as long as the individual does not obstruct official duties.

The court clarified that recording in public spaces aligns with constitutional provisions under the 1999 Constitution, particularly the rights to freedom of expression and access to information. It stressed that the act of recording alone cannot justify arrest, intimidation, or confiscation of devices by law enforcement officers.

The ruling establishes that Nigerians can legally record police during stop-and-search operations, and that officers are not permitted to harass, arrest, or seize phones from individuals solely for documenting encounters. It also affirms that such recordings can serve as valuable evidence in cases of misconduct, while reminding citizens of their obligation to comply with lawful orders and avoid interference.

READ ALSO:

• Fani-Kayode Slams Dele Momodu for Comparing Tinubu to Abacha
• Olu Agunloye Reduced Federal Govt’s Equity in Mambilla Project by $900 Million
• Zakatul Fitr: Rules, Amount, Timing and Distribution Before Eid al-Fitr

The judgment comes amid growing concerns over police misconduct, harassment, and extortion during routine stop-and-search operations. These concerns were widely highlighted during the End SARS protests, which sparked nationwide and global calls for police reform in Nigeria.

Legal experts say the decision sets a strong precedent that will promote professional conduct among officers, empower citizens to document encounters safely, strengthen accountability, and improve public trust in law enforcement.

Human rights groups have described the ruling as a major victory for civil liberties, urging authorities to ensure that officers across the country are properly informed and trained on its implications. They also called on the Nigeria Police Force to issue clear operational guidelines to prevent violations.

While the judgment empowers citizens, it also places responsibility on the public to act within the law, ensuring that recording does not interfere with police duties or compromise safety.

Overall, the decision is expected to reshape stop-and-search practices in Nigeria, placing greater emphasis on professionalism, transparency, and respect for human rights.

Court Confirms Nigerians’ Right to Record Police During Stop-and-Search Operations