The Nigerian government provides clarity on the UK’s stance regarding Sunday Igboho’s petition for Yoruba nation independence, addressing concerns over international support.
On Tuesday, the Nigerian Federal Government announced that the petition from Mr. Sunday Adeyemo, widely known as “Sunday Igboho,” requesting recognition of the ‘Yoruba Nation’ movement by the United Kingdom has not received endorsement from the UK government.
Amb. Eche Abu-Obe, the spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, provided this clarification in a statement released in Abuja.
The government’s stance underscores its dedication to preserving national unity and tackling the concerns related to the ongoing movement for an independent Yoruba nation.
After media reports emerged about the petition submitted at No. 10 Downing Street by Mr. Sunday Adeyemo, widely known as Sunday Igboho, the British High Commissioner in Abuja was called upon to clarify the matter.
During the meeting, the High Commissioner expressed concern that the issue had been exaggerated and noted that media reports were highly misleading.
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Additionally, the High Commissioner mentioned that he was aware of the letter being delivered but noted that it was simply a customary practice to allow letters and petitions to be sent to No 10.
It was not approved by any UK government agency or the UK Parliamentary Petitions Committee.
“The UK government generally does not involve itself with petitions related to the internal matters of another nation,” stated Abu-Obe.
He mentioned that the high commissioner had reported such petitions being turned down previously by both the UK Parliamentary Petitions Committee and the UK Government.
He also agreed to maintain communication with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs as necessary, emphasizing once again the significance of bilateral relations between the United Kingdom and Nigeria.
