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HURIWA Demands DSS Arrest Igboho Over Alleged Threats To Opposition Politicians

ByTitilope Adako

PublishedMarch 31, 2026

The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has called on the Department of State Services (DSS) to immediately invite, and if necessary, arrest Yoruba Nation agitator, Sunday Igboho, over alleged threats against opposition politicians in the South-West.

The demand follows a viral video and audio in which Igboho was reportedly heard warning that political opponents of President Bola Tinubu, including Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi, should not campaign in Yoruba land.

In a statement, HURIWA’s National Coordinator, Emmanuel Onwubiko, described the remarks as a direct threat to Nigeria’s democratic order, warning that such rhetoric could incite political violence.

“These statements are dangerous, unlawful and capable of inciting political violence. Security agencies must act swiftly to prevent a breakdown of law and order ahead of the 2027 general elections,” the group said.

HURIWA stressed that no individual has the constitutional authority to restrict political activities or movement in any part of the country, noting that Nigeria’s democracy guarantees freedom of association and participation.

The association warned that the development reflects a pattern of political intimidation in the South-West, recalling controversies during the 2023 general elections.

It cited actions attributed to Musiliu Akinsanya, who faced backlash over alleged threats against non-indigenous voters, particularly Igbos, during the Lagos governorship poll.

“Allowing individuals to openly threaten opposition figures without consequences risks normalising political violence and undermining national unity,” the statement added.

HURIWA also highlighted what it described as inflammatory rhetoric from political actors, including presidential spokesperson Bayo Onanuga, saying such narratives could embolden further threats across the country.

The group urged the DSS and Nigeria Police Force to summon Igboho for questioning and take legal action if the allegations are confirmed.

“The convergence of these developments raises serious concerns about a coordinated pattern of political intimidation. Failure to act decisively could create the impression of state-backed complicity or selective enforcement of the law,” HURIWA said.

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It further cautioned that unchecked threats could escalate into violence and provoke retaliatory actions in other regions, deepening national tensions.

The organisation called on President Bola Tinubu to publicly distance himself from any individual or group issuing threats in his name.

“The President must take urgent steps to reassure Nigerians that no group is being empowered, directly or indirectly, to intimidate or attack political opponents. Silence or inaction could be interpreted as endorsement,” the group said.

HURIWA concluded by insisting that Nigeria’s unity depends on the protection of democratic freedoms, warning that no region should become a no-go area for citizens seeking political support.

Titilope Adako

Titilope Adako is a talented and intrepid journalist, dedicated to shedding light on the untold stories of Osun State and Nigeria. Through incisive reporting, she tackles a broad spectrum of topics, from politics and social justice to culture and entertainment, with a commitment to accuracy, empathy, and inspiring positive change.