Two influential groups, the Egbe Omo Yoruba Parapo and the Tinubu Shettima Divine Mandate Initiative (TSDMI) 2023, have issued urgent calls for the immediate release of Ambassador Otunba Adejare Adegbenro.
Ambassador Adegbenro, a respected Yoruba leader and diplomat, has been unlawfully detained by the Nigerian police since April 26, 2024.
Egbe Omo Yoruba Parapo, a leading Yoruba ethnic group representing the cultural and social interests of the Yoruba people in southwestern Nigeria, has expressed deep concern over the detention of Ambassador Adegbenro.
The group highlights Adegbenro’s significant contributions to the Yoruba community, particularly in Ogun State, where his efforts have driven progress and prosperity.
“Ambassador Adejare Adegbenro has long been a pivotal figure in the growth and development of the Yoruba race. His dedication to fostering unity, promoting cultural heritage, and championing socio-economic advancements has earned him respect and admiration both locally and internationally,” stated a spokesperson for Egbe Omo Yoruba Parapo.
The group condemns the detention as a violation of Adegbenro’s fundamental rights, noting that it disrupts his ongoing work as an advocate for peace, justice, and mutual understanding among diverse groups.
They urge the relevant authorities to intervene swiftly to secure his release, emphasizing his unwavering commitment to service and integrity.
Egbe Omo Yoruba Parapo calls on governmental bodies, civil society organizations, and the media to join them in demanding justice and fairness for Ambassador Adegbenro. They stress the importance of upholding the rule of law, human rights, and dignity for all individuals.
In a related development, the Tinubu Shettima Divine Mandate Initiative (TSDMI) 2023 has also demanded the immediate release of Ambassador Adegbenro.
TSDMI is a distinguished support group dedicated to promoting the candidature of President Ahmed Bola Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima, as well as upholding justice, democracy, and human rights in Nigeria.
Ambassador Dr. Otunba Adegbenro, described as an illustrious son of Ogun State and a respected diplomat, has been unjustly deprived of his freedom, according to TSDMI.
The group asserts that his detention violates fundamental human rights and international protocols, specifically the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations, to which Nigeria is a signatory.
“TSDMI strongly condemns this blatant violation of Ambassador Dr. Adegbenro’s rights and calls for his immediate and unconditional release. As our Grand Patron, he has tirelessly dedicated himself to the agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and to the service of our nation, fostering international cooperation and advancing Nigeria’s interests on the global stage,” said a TSDMI representative.
The group urges President Tinubu and the Nigerian Police to uphold the rule of law and release Ambassador Adegbenro without delay. They warn that any adverse events during his detention will be the responsibility of the Nigerian Police.
TSDMI stands in solidarity with Ambassador Adegbenro and his family, calling on all stakeholders, both domestic and international, to demand his immediate release and ensure that justice is served.