Reported by Weng Patrick Atokor | Weng Global
The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, has donated ₦100 million and a Toyota Hilux vehicle to support the operations of the Iru Ekun Security Network, the private security outfit established by Yoruba Nation activist, Chief Sunday Adeyemo, popularly known as Sunday Igboho.
The donation was announced during a gathering of traditional rulers, community leaders and supporters of the security initiative, where the monarch reaffirmed the need for stronger community-based efforts to combat kidnapping, banditry and other violent crimes affecting communities across the South-West.
The financial support and operational vehicle are expected to strengthen the capacity of the Iru Ekun Security Network as it expands its activities across the region.
The development comes amid growing concerns over insecurity in parts of the South-West, where communities have continued to battle kidnapping, attacks on farmers and violent crimes along highways and forest reserves.
Ooni backs community security
Speaking during the presentation, the Ooni stressed that security remains a collective responsibility, noting that traditional institutions must continue to support lawful initiatives aimed at protecting lives and property.
According to the revered monarch, peace and security are essential for economic development, agriculture and investment.
He said communities cannot prosper where residents live in fear, adding that every legitimate effort to improve local security deserves encouragement.
The monarch reportedly described the donation as a contribution toward strengthening grassroots security while encouraging collaboration with government security agencies.
Hilux to boost operations
Besides the ₦100 million cash support, the Toyota Hilux vehicle is expected to enhance the mobility of operatives during surveillance, emergency response and patrol operations.
Security experts often regard pickup trucks such as the Hilux as practical operational vehicles because of their ability to navigate difficult terrains, especially rural communities and forest routes where many criminal activities occur.
Supporters of the initiative believe the additional logistics will improve the outfit’s effectiveness.
Igboho expresses appreciation
Sunday Igboho expressed gratitude to the Ooni for the gesture, describing it as a demonstration of confidence in the security initiative.
He assured supporters that the resources would be used responsibly to improve operations aimed at combating kidnapping, terrorism and violent crimes across Yorubaland.
Igboho reiterated that the security outfit is committed to working within the law and cooperating with relevant government agencies.
He maintained that the objective of the organisation is to complement existing security structures by providing intelligence and community-based support.
Background of Iru Ekun Security Network
The Iru Ekun Security Network was established following increasing concerns over insecurity in parts of the South-West.
Igboho had earlier stated that the organisation was created to assist in flushing out kidnappers, terrorists and other criminal elements operating in forests and rural communities.
Initially, he disclosed that the group was awaiting federal approval before commencing operations, insisting it would collaborate with the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services (DSS), the Nigerian Army, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) and other security agencies.
In May, the activist later announced the commencement of operations, saying the network would operate across South-West forests and parts of Kwara and Kogi states while working with local communities to improve intelligence gathering.
Growing membership
The security outfit has continued to attract volunteers across the region.
Recently, Igboho disclosed that membership had exceeded 80,000 volunteers, surpassing the initial projection of 50,000 personnel.
According to him, applicants undergo background checks to prevent criminal infiltration, while the organisation focuses on intelligence gathering and support for lawful security operations.
Community security debate
The emergence of community-based security organisations has generated debate among security analysts and policymakers.
Supporters argue that local initiatives provide valuable intelligence because residents understand the terrain and can quickly identify suspicious activities.
Others, however, insist that all security organisations must operate within Nigeria’s legal framework and under proper government oversight to prevent abuse and ensure accountability.
Several states across Nigeria already operate recognised community security outfits alongside conventional security agencies as governments seek new approaches to addressing insecurity.
Rising insecurity
Nigeria has witnessed persistent security challenges in recent years, including kidnapping, armed robbery, terrorism and attacks on farming communities.
The South-West has not been spared, with several incidents reported in Oyo, Ondo, Ekiti, Ogun and Osun states.
Community leaders have repeatedly called for stronger collaboration among traditional rulers, local vigilante groups and federal security agencies to improve intelligence gathering and rapid response.
Analysts believe such cooperation remains crucial in addressing security threats while ensuring that all security activities remain consistent with the law.
The Ooni’s donation is expected to further boost discussions around community policing and grassroots participation in tackling insecurity, even as authorities continue to emphasise the importance of coordination with established security institutions.
Sources
- Premium Times – Sunday Igboho launches forest security operation in South-West
- The PUNCH – Igboho unveils security outfit to tackle insecurity in South West
- TheCable – Sunday Igboho plans creation of Iru Ekun Security Network
- The Nation – Security: Sunday Igboho seeks approval for Iru Ekun Security Network
- The Guardian – Iru Ekun Security Network membership exceeds 80,000
