Yoruba self-determination advocate, Sunday Adeyemo, popularly known as Sunday Igboho, has expanded his Iru Ekun Security Network to Ekiti State, with a pledge that the group will complement the efforts of conventional security agencies in tackling crime and insecurity.
The Ekiti State chapter of the security network was formally inaugurated on Thursday during Igboho’s visit to the palace of the Ewi of Ado-Ekiti, Oba Rufus Adeyemo Adejugbe Aladesanmi III.
Commander Ifatosin Ilori was named to lead the Iru Ekun Security Network in Ekiti State.
Igboho said the initiative was established to support the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services, DSS, and other security agencies in addressing kidnapping, banditry and other security challenges across the Southwest.
According to him, the security outfit has grown to more than 120,000 members since its establishment.“The police are trying their best.
I just want to support them to make peace reign in all our land in the Southwest,” Igboho told journalists after his meeting with the traditional ruler.
He stressed that members of the security network must remain committed to their primary responsibility of protecting communities and assisting efforts aimed at maintaining peace and security.
Igboho also warned members against getting involved in domestic disputes or activities outside their security responsibilities, urging them to respect traditional institutions and undergo proper training.
The Yoruba activist said his visit to the Ewi of Ado-Ekiti was also aimed at strengthening the relationship between the Iru Ekun Security Network and traditional rulers, whom he described as important stakeholders in community security.
He claimed that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu granted him the authority to return to Nigeria and commence the security initiative.
Speaking at the event, the Ewi of Ado-Ekiti commended efforts aimed at improving security, noting that peace and stability remain essential for meaningful development.
The monarch expressed the readiness of the traditional institution to support genuine initiatives designed to protect lives and property.
Igboho also thanked Ekiti residents and traditional rulers for their support during the burial ceremony of his mother, which he said was attended by about 10 monarchs from the state.
He was later presented with an award by Chief Jacob Osamika in recognition of what was described as his contributions and support for Ekiti State.
The inauguration of the Iru Ekun Security Network in Ekiti comes amid growing concerns over kidnapping, banditry and other criminal activities in parts of the Southwest, with communities increasingly seeking additional support to complement the operations of conventional security agencies.
