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Ooni of Ife, Adeyeye Ogunwusi, has thrown his weight behind efforts to strengthen grassroots security in Yorubaland, donating ₦100 million and a brand-new Hilux vehicle to the Iru Ekun Security Network, a community-based security outfit established by Yoruba nation activist Sunday Adeyemo.
The donation was unveiled on Tuesday at the Ooni's Palace in Ile-Ife, Osun State, during a courtesy visit by Sunday Igboho and members of the security network.
Describing the initiative as both timely and necessary, the monarch said the security outfit would complement existing security agencies in protecting lives and property across Yoruba communities. He praised Igboho's resolve in addressing insecurity, stressing that safeguarding communities is a collective responsibility that should transcend political, religious and ideological differences.
According to the Ooni, no society can achieve meaningful development without peace and security. He therefore called on traditional rulers, business leaders, professionals, community stakeholders and other well-meaning Nigerians to support initiatives that promote safety, unity and stability throughout Yorubaland.
The revered monarch also underscored the importance of unity among Yoruba people, noting that collaboration remains one of the strongest tools in confronting growing security challenges and advancing the region's collective interests.
In his response, Sunday Igboho expressed gratitude to the Ooni for the generous financial support, the vehicle donation and the royal endorsement of the Iru Ekun Security Network. He described the traditional ruler as a respected father figure whose leadership continues to inspire unity and development across Yorubaland.
Igboho explained that the visit also provided an opportunity to brief the Ooni on the activities and vision of the security outfit while seeking further guidance for its operations.
He announced plans to convene a summit of traditional rulers from across Yorubaland to deliberate on practical and lasting solutions to insecurity affecting communities in the region.
Reaffirming the network's commitment to the rule of law, Igboho said the Iru Ekun Security Network would work closely with relevant authorities and local communities. He noted that its core responsibilities would include community policing, intelligence gathering and supporting peace-building efforts aimed at making Yoruba communities safer.
