Sunday Igboho Launches Security Network in Kwara, Vows to Tackle Banditry
Yoruba Nation activist, Chief Sunday Adeyemo, popularly known as Sunday Igboho, has pledged to support efforts to flush out bandits and other criminal elements operating in forests and communities across Kwara State.
Igboho made the declaration on Thursday in Ilorin during the official launch of the Iru Ekun Security Network in the state.
He said the security outfit was established to complement the activities of the Nigeria Police Force, the military and other recognised security agencies in addressing kidnapping, banditry and other violent crimes.
According to him, the network will commence operations in Babanla and return to Eruku, communities that have recently experienced security challenges.
Igboho said criminal groups would no longer be allowed to use forests within the state as hideouts or launch attacks on residents.
He explained that the security initiative was not intended to replace government security agencies but to strengthen community-based intelligence gathering and support ongoing efforts to restore peace.
“We are ready to work with the police, the military and other security agencies. Security is a collective responsibility, and with cooperation among communities and security institutions, kidnapping and other criminal activities can be significantly reduced,” he said.
The activist also called on residents to provide useful information that could assist security agencies in identifying and apprehending those involved in criminal activities.
He alleged that some criminal groups relied on information and support from individuals within local communities, urging residents to expose anyone aiding banditry or threatening public safety.
Igboho, however, cautioned members of the public against taking the law into their own hands, advising that unarmed suspects should be handed over to the police for proper investigation.
He maintained that the Iru Ekun Security Network was not created to target any ethnic group, stressing that its operations would focus strictly on individuals involved in criminal activities.
According to him, innocent Fulani residents and members of other ethnic communities have nothing to fear, as the security outfit’s mandate is to confront criminals regardless of their background.
Igboho also commended the Kwara State Commissioner of Police, Adekimi Ojo, for his cooperation with local security initiatives.
He recalled that the police had previously provided support during security operations in forest areas linking Kwara and Oyo states.
Addressing reports that the Kwara State Government opposed his visit, Igboho said he did not believe Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq would prevent efforts aimed at improving security in the state.
He said the governor was aware of the concerns surrounding persistent attacks and kidnappings in parts of Kwara and remained committed to protecting residents.
Igboho further praised President Bola Tinubu, attributing the establishment of the Iru Ekun Security Network to the President’s support and commitment to security.
The launch comes amid growing concerns over insecurity in parts of Kwara South Senatorial District, where attacks by armed groups have reportedly displaced residents and disrupted activities in several communities.
The security outfit is expected to work alongside the police and other recognised security agencies as part of efforts to improve intelligence gathering and combat criminal activities across the state.
