Sunday Igboho accused of ethnic profiling of Northerners, prompting federal calls for intervention

The Arewa People’s Unity Association (APUA) has accused Yoruba activist Sunday Igboho of promoting ethnic profiling of Northerners living in Nigeria’s South‑West and urged the federal government to intervene to prevent national disunity. The group also called on the Lagos state government to compensate traders displaced by the demolition of structures at Alaba Rago, warning that the exercise could deepen ethnic distrust if not handled fairly.

Fulani residents in Oyo State have voiced fear over Igboho’s newly formed Iru Ekun Security Network, claiming the outfit targets Fulani communities as criminal suspects. A resident said, "We are living in fear," and argued that blaming the Fulani for kidnappings fuels mistrust. The residents also disputed claims that hostages had been released after Igboho’s intervention, noting that police and local officials have debunked those statements. Both groups are calling for a government response to curb rising ethnic tensions and ensure proper security measures.