Feb 17 • 16:53 UTC 🇳🇬 Nigeria Punch

Kanu’s terrorism conviction is different from Igboho’s activism — Tinubu’s aide

A Nigerian presidential aide argues that there are significant differences between the circumstances of Nnamdi Kanu's terrorism conviction and Sunday Igboho's advocacy for Yoruba nationalism.

Sunday Dare, the Special Adviser to President Bola Tinubu on Public Communication and Orientation, has clarified the distinctions between Nnamdi Kanu of the Indigenous People of Biafra and Yoruba activist Sunday Igboho. According to Dare, Kanu's life sentence for terrorism stems from his involvement in insurrection and violence, which he claims led to over 700 deaths and significant destabilization in the South-East region of Nigeria. Conversely, Igboho's actions are framed as peaceful activism focused on protecting Yoruba communities from threats posed by criminal elements.

Dare's comments were made in response to assertions suggesting that both individuals should be compared due to their ethnic-based movements. He emphasized that the violent methods attributed to Kanu highlight a radical approach to political dissent, while Igboho’s efforts have been characterized by a more defensive and peaceful protest for the rights of the Yoruba people in Nigeria. This delineation seeks to foster a better understanding among the public regarding the nature of each individual's activities and the government's stance toward their actions.

This discourse touches upon broader themes of ethnic identity and political activism in Nigeria, particularly regarding the tensions between different regional movements. The comparison by Dare underscores a pivotal narrative in the Nigerian political landscape, as various ethnic groups seek recognition and security amidst ongoing issues of violence and governance. The government’s interpretation of these movements has implications for public policy and community relations in the country.

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