The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, has donated ₦100 million and a brand-new Hilux vehicle to support the Iru Ekun Security Network, a community-based security outfit founded by Yoruba Nation advocate, Chief Sunday Adeyemo, popularly known as Sunday Igboho.
The donation was announced on Tuesday during a courtesy visit by Sunday Igboho and members of the security outfit to the Ooni’s Palace in Ile-Ife.
In a statement issued by the Ooni’s media office, the monarch described the Iru Ekun Security Network as a timely initiative designed to complement existing security efforts aimed at protecting lives and property across Yorubaland.
The Ooni commended Igboho for his commitment to the security and welfare of the Yoruba people, describing him as courageous and dedicated to community service.
He stressed that every Yoruba son and daughter has a responsibility to contribute to the peace, unity and development of the region, noting that meaningful development can only thrive in a secure environment.
According to the monarch, the financial donation and vehicle were intended to strengthen community security and encourage initiatives that promote peace and harmony.
“I commend Chief Sunday Igboho for taking a bold step towards strengthening community security. Protecting our people is a collective responsibility that transcends political, religious and ideological differences. Every initiative genuinely designed to preserve lives and maintain peace deserves encouragement and support,” the Ooni said.
He also called on traditional rulers, business leaders, professionals, community leaders and other Yoruba stakeholders worldwide to support the security outfit.
Describing Igboho as a courageous patriot, the Ooni said history would remember those who stood up to protect their people during challenging times.
Responding, Sunday Igboho expressed appreciation to the monarch for the financial support and encouragement, describing the Ooni as a symbol of unity and a father figure to Yoruba people across the world.
“The Ooni is the father of all Yoruba people worldwide. He is God’s gift to our race. His love for the Yoruba nation, humility and kindness distinguish him among traditional rulers,” he said.
Igboho explained that the visit was also an opportunity to brief the monarch on the activities of the Iru Ekun Security Network and seek his continued support, prayers and royal endorsement.
He further disclosed plans to organise a security summit involving traditional rulers across Yorubaland to discuss practical solutions to the region’s security challenges. According to him, the summit, subject to the Ooni’s approval, is expected to hold at the Ooni’s Palace in Ile-Ife.
Igboho reaffirmed that the Iru Ekun Security Network would continue to operate within the law while collaborating with security agencies and local communities to promote intelligence gathering, community policing and peace across Yorubaland.
