Sunday Igboho released after Western diplomats mount pressure on Benin Republic, fly to Germany
Renowned Yoruba activist Sunday Igboho, who was arrested in Cotonou, Benin Republic has reportedly been released barely 24-hours after his detention.
According to the Yoruba Nation Global Directorate, Igboho is already on his way to Germany, where he is expected to meet family members following his release.
Igboho’s release is attributed to Western countries including Britain, Canada, France, Germany and the United States mounting intense pressure on the Government of Benin Republic not to hand over Sunday Igboho to Nigerian authorities.
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Ambassadors of Western nations had reached out to the Benin Republic authorities, asking them not to hand over Chief Igboho to the Nigerian government, arguing on a strong suspicion that he will not get justice if returned to his home country.
“We do not think returning Igboho to Nigeria will set standards for Benin Republic in line with global human rights best practices’ a diplomat said.
Meanwhile, Mr Leesi Ebenezer Olarewaju, a lawyer based in the United States who is one of those representing Chief Adeyemo, had earlier showed indications that Benin Republic will not transfer Igboho to Nigeria.
Olanrewaju said the authorities of the International Police and the Government of the Republic of Benin are not willing to return Igboho to Nigeria.
He said under international laws, Igboho is not seen to have committed any crime but merely fighting for self determination, which is recognised under international law
He said Benin arrested Igboho based on ‘alarm’ raised by Nigeria, adding that British and German governments already have shown interest in the case
“We are on top of the situation right now. We have successfully notified the British government on the dangers of letting Sunday Adeyemo returned to Nigeria where his life is at risk. We believe that before the end of today, BRITAIN would have granted his request for asylum in good faith,” he said.
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