Yoruba nation activist and founder of the Iru Ekun Security Network, Sunday Adeyemo, popularly known as Sunday Igboho, has vowed to continue the fight against criminal elements across the South-West.
Igboho made the declaration as he called for continued cooperation between community-based security initiatives and established security agencies.
He said the objective was to improve security and restore public confidence across the region.
Igboho Calls Security A Collective Responsibility
Igboho described security as a collective responsibility that should involve Nigerians regardless of political, ethnic or religious differences.
He said the Iru Ekun initiative was established to complement efforts by conventional security agencies in dealing with kidnapping, banditry and other violent crimes.
According to him, the organisation’s commitment is aimed at helping create a safer environment for residents and economic activity across the South-West.
Iru Ekun Network Expands
Iru Ekun was launched earlier in 2026 as a community-based security initiative.
Igboho has said the group was established to tackle criminal elements operating in forests and rural communities across the South-West.
The network has since attracted thousands of volunteers.
In July, Igboho claimed that more than 80,000 people had registered with the organisation across Yorubaland.
The organisation has also been involved in reported operations against kidnappers.
In July, Punch reported that Iru Ekun members, working alongside the Nigeria Police Force’s Intelligence Response Team, rescued a woman and her son who had been kidnapped in Oyo State and taken to Kwara.
Security Agencies’ Role
Igboho has repeatedly emphasised collaboration with government security agencies.
The Iru Ekun initiative has also generated debate over the role of non-state actors in Nigeria’s security architecture.
While supporters argue that community-based groups can provide local intelligence and knowledge of difficult terrain, critics have raised concerns about accountability, training and the limits of civilian security groups.
The Sun previously reported that legal and security commentators had urged caution over the initiative while acknowledging the potential for local groups to complement formal security structures.
Igboho Maintains Commitment
Despite the debate, Igboho has continued to push for the expansion of the network.
His latest declaration indicates that the group intends to remain active in efforts to confront criminality across the region.
The initiative’s effectiveness and relationship with state and federal security agencies are likely to remain subjects of public scrutiny as it expands.