Prominent Yoruba nation activist, Sunday Adeyemo, widely known as Sunday Igboho, has called on detained separatist leader Nnamdi Kanu to pursue dialogue with the Federal Government as a pathway to resolving his legal and political challenges.
In a statement issued on Friday and signed by his counsel, Pelumi Olajengbesi, Igboho commended Kanu for cancelling the Monday sit-at-home directive that had disrupted economic and social life across the South-East for five years.
He described the move as a constructive step capable of restoring stability and confidence in the region. According to the statement, the decision to halt the weekly protest demonstrates a willingness to reconsider strategies and prioritise peace.
Igboho further urged the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra to intensify efforts towards mediation and formal engagement with the administration of Bola Tinubu, expressing optimism that meaningful negotiations could yield a peaceful resolution.
While acknowledging Kanu’s right to self-determination, Igboho maintained that constructive dialogue would better serve the interests of the South-East and the country at large. He added that the present administration could be receptive to negotiations conducted in good faith.
The activist also warned against individuals and groups allegedly benefiting from unrest in the region, urging them to desist in the interest of economic recovery and national stability.
The development signals a rare moment of solidarity between two high-profile ethnic activists and underscores growing calls for negotiation as a means of restoring calm in the South-East.
The sit-at-home order was introduced in August 2021 following Kanu’s rendition to Nigeria and detention. Since then, businesses, schools and banks in parts of the region often shut down on Mondays.
Kanu was convicted of terrorism-related offences in November 2025 and sentenced to life imprisonment. He is currently being held at the Sokoto Correctional Centre, while his family continues to pursue an appeal against the verdict.
