Yoruba nation activist Chief Sunday Adeyemo, popularly known as Sunday Igboho, says more than 80,000 volunteers have registered for the Iru Ekun Security Network across the South-West, surpassing the group’s initial recruitment target.
Speaking during a press briefing on Monday, Igboho said the security outfit had originally planned to recruit 50,000 volunteers but witnessed overwhelming interest from residents across the region.
He attributed the high turnout to growing public concern over insecurity, particularly kidnapping, banditry and attacks on farmers in parts of the South-West.
According to him, all applicants will undergo comprehensive background checks to ensure that individuals with criminal records or questionable backgrounds are not admitted into the organisation.
“We projected a strength of 50,000 personnel, but we have already registered over 80,000 volunteers across Yorubaland,” Igboho said. “Every applicant is being thoroughly screened to prevent infiltration by criminal elements.”
He disclosed that the security network has commenced operations in Oyo and Osun states, while preparations are underway to extend its activities to Kwara State.
Igboho said the organisation is working with community leaders and other stakeholders to strengthen local security and intelligence gathering, adding that communities where the network has been deployed have recorded a reduction in kidnapping incidents and farmer-herder conflicts.
He also said the group is coordinating its activities with relevant security agencies, noting that it is committed to operating within the law.
The activist expressed appreciation to the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, and the Director-General of the Department of State Services (DSS), Adeola Oluwatosin Ajayi, for supporting community-based security initiatives.
He urged residents of the South-West to support efforts aimed at improving security in rural communities, protecting farmers and ensuring the safety of lives and property across the region.