Yoruba Nation activist Sunday Adeyemo, popularly known as Sunday Igboho, has pledged the support of the Iru Ekun Security Network for President Bola Tinubu’s efforts to tackle banditry, kidnapping and other criminal activities in the South-West.
Igboho made the declaration during the launch of the security network in Akure, Ondo State, where he said the group would continue working with conventional security agencies to improve safety across the region.
According to a statement from his media office, Igboho said security should be treated as a collective responsibility, regardless of political, ethnic or religious differences.
He said, “Everything humanly and legally possible must be done to support the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who approved the establishment of Iru Ekun to further develop the South West and other parts of Nigeria.”
Igboho maintained that effective security was necessary to create an environment where economic and social activities could thrive.
He also claimed that incidents of kidnapping, banditry and clashes between herders and farmers had reduced in parts of Yorubaland since Iru Ekun began operating with support from the police, military and Department of State Services.
“We are not backing down or relenting until we make the South West forests, highways and agrarian communities safe for all,” he said.
However, Igboho cautioned members of the network against independently confronting suspected criminals. He directed volunteers to notify the police and other relevant security agencies whenever they identify suspicious activities.
The emphasis on cooperation is significant given the sensitive role of community-based security groups in Nigeria, where concerns over insecurity have increased demand for local participation in crime prevention.
Igboho’s latest position also marks a notable emphasis on working alongside the Federal Government, despite his longstanding advocacy for Yoruba interests.
The Iru Ekun Security Network was unveiled in May 2026 as a community-oriented security initiative targeting criminal activities in forests and rural communities across the South-West.
Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa and traditional rulers, including the Deji of Akure and Olowo of Owo, have also expressed support for the network and encouraged residents to cooperate with recognised security agencies.
