Yoruba Nation activist Sunday Adeyemo, popularly known as Sunday Igboho, has announced that more than 80,000 volunteers have registered for the Iru Ekun Security Network across the South-West, surpassing the outfit’s initial target of 50,000 personnel.
Drivetvnews gathered In a statement released by his media office on Monday, Igboho said the overwhelming response reflects the commitment of people in the region to community-based efforts aimed at tackling kidnapping, terrorism and other security challenges.
According to him, the security network has already been officially launched in Oyo and Osun states, while preparations have been concluded for its launch in Kwara State on Thursday.
He disclosed that the Kwara State Government and other stakeholders, including Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, are supporting the initiative.
“We projected 50,000 personnel, but over 80,000 volunteers have already registered across Yorubaland,” Igboho said, describing the response as a demonstration of public confidence in the security outfit.
He further claimed that kidnapping incidents have reduced significantly in parts of the South-West since the launch of the initiative, attributing the development to improved local intelligence gathering and collaboration with security agencies.
Igboho noted that all prospective members undergo thorough background checks to prevent individuals with criminal records or questionable character from joining the organisation.
He also urged Nigerians to continue supporting President Bola Tinubu’s efforts to strengthen collaboration between security agencies and local communities in addressing insecurity.
The activist acknowledged the support of several federal security institutions, including the Nigeria Police Force, the Ministry of Defence, the Armed Forces, the Department of State Services (DSS) and the Office of the National Security Adviser, saying their cooperation had contributed to the network’s achievements.
He specifically commended the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, Inspector-General of Police Kayode Egbetokun, DSS Director-General Adeola Oluwatosin Ajayi, National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu, and Commissioners of Police in the South-West, Kwara and Niger states for supporting the initiative.
Igboho also praised South-West governors for backing the security network and called on Nigerians, regardless of ethnic or religious background, to view security as a shared responsibility.
