…unveils 20,000 Iru Ekun volunteers in Oyo
…links Abuja trip to strengthening regional security network
By Adeola Badru
Yoruba nation activist, Chief Sunday Adeyemo, popularly known as Sunday Igboho, has called for a stronger security role for traditional rulers across the South-West, declaring that the Iru Ekun Security Network, which he described as the brainchild of the region’s traditional institutions, has attracted 20,000 volunteers in Oyo State.
Igboho made the declaration on Sunday at the launch of the network at the popular Mapo Hall in Ibadan, where he explained that his recent visit to Abuja was aimed at strengthening the organisation’s security responsibilities and expanding its effectiveness in protecting communities.
The development was on the heels of the persistent security concerns across Nigeria, including abductions, killings and other criminal activities, which have placed renewed emphasis on cooperation between traditional institutions, local communities and conventional security agencies.
According to a statement issued by Igboho’s media office, no fewer than 20,000 volunteers joined the organisation in Oyo State, with its operational reach extending across Yorubaland and parts of Kwara and Niger states.
The statement said the Oyo launch followed similar inaugurations in Osun, Ekiti, Lagos, Ogun and Ondo states, alongside engagements with traditional rulers and community leaders.
It added that the organisation had collaborated with the Nigerian Army, the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services (DSS) and other security agencies to tackle abductions, killings and other forms of insecurity, particularly in the South-West.
Commending the turnout at the Ibadan launch, Igboho said the participation of the volunteers demonstrated the willingness of residents to contribute to the safety of their communities, regardless of ethnic, religious or political differences.
“The impressive development represents a milestone which indicates genuine interest of Oyo people in active participation to ensure safety and security of residents, irrespective of tribes, religion and political affiliations,” he said.
Explaining the purpose of his Abuja trip, Igboho said the engagement was aimed at advancing the responsibilities of the security network, which he maintained was established through the initiative of traditional rulers in the South-West.
“I was in Abuja this morning so that Iru Ekun’s security responsibilities can be further strengthened.“
“This is because Iru Ekun is the brain child of South West traditional rulers and it will continue to serve its purpose for the peace and effective security of our communities,” he said.
He disclosed that the trip followed an invitation he received the previous night and linked the engagement to his collaboration with the Olubadan of Ibadanland.
“I received the call last night to come to Abuja. My Abuja trip was as a result of the collaboration with our traditional ruler, the Olubadan of Ibadanland,” he stated.
Igboho also expressed gratitude to God for what he described as protection against banditry, while acknowledging the contributions of traditional rulers to peace and security across the country.
“Firstly I want to thank Almighty God who has all powers, owns us, preserves us. The God that says we won’t be overcomed by bandits. We thank God,” he said.
He added: “After that, we thank all traditional rulers in Nigeria and may God grant them a long life.”
The activist subsequently commended President Bola Tinubu, whom he credited with providing a platform for members of the initiative to interact and pursue their security objectives.
“We are also paying homage to the person, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who provided this platform so that we can interact as Iru Ekun members,” he said.
Addressing the volunteers, Igboho expressed concern over what he described as the contemptuous attitude of some people towards them, predicting that their efforts would eventually attract recognition.
“Some people are still taking a despicable look at you (Volunteers). Soon they will lobby you for positions,” he remarked.
Meanwhile, Igboho urged Nigerians, including members of the Iru Ekun Security Network, to support Tinubu’s re-election bid and vote for the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the forthcoming January presidential election.
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