The authorities in Benin have released Nigerian separatist leader, Sunday “Igboho” Adeyemo, according to his spokesperson.
Mr Igboho was arrested at a Benin airport in July 2021 alongside his wife on Nigeria’s request, although his wife was released days later. The couple was said to be headed for Germany where his wife is a citizen.
He was accused of entering Benin illegally and planning to cause trouble but he denied the charges. The Nigerian authorities never made a formal extradition request.
In a statement on Monday, his spokesman said Mr Igboho was released to the leader of the umbrella body of Yoruba Self-determination Groups, Banji Akintoye.
Details on his release remain unclear.
Nigeria accuses Mr Igboho of stockpiling weapons, calling for the break-up of the country and inciting ethnic killings.
Mr Igboho is hailed as a hero by his supporters after calling for a Yoruba nation in the country’s south-west.
He fled the country after a raid on his home by Nigeria’s secret police in July 2021 where two of his associates were killed.
Source: BBC
