Over 80,000 Volunteers Join Iru Ekun Security Network — Sunday Igboho

The number of registered volunteers under the Iru Ekun Security Network has exceeded 80,000 across the South-West, according to the founder of the initiative, Sunday Adeyemo, popularly known as Sunday Igboho.

Igboho disclosed this on Monday, describing the growing membership of the security outfit as evidence of increasing interest among residents in community-based efforts to tackle insecurity.

According to a statement issued by his media office, the initiative was created to support efforts against kidnapping, terrorism and other forms of criminal activity affecting communities in the region.

He said the network had attracted volunteers beyond its initial projection of 50,000 personnel, following what he described as strong public support for local security initiatives.

“It is delightful to announce the impressive level of interest and enthusiasm demonstrated by our people in the Iru Ekun Security Network. We were projecting 50,000 personnel, but we have already registered over 80,000 in Yorubaland,” Igboho said.

Igboho said the security network has already been launched in Oyo and Osun states, with plans underway for its inauguration in Kwara State.

He added that discussions had been concluded with relevant stakeholders in Kwara, including state authorities, ahead of the planned launch.

The activist said members of the outfit undergo background checks to ensure that individuals with questionable records or criminal tendencies are prevented from joining the network.

Igboho attributed what he described as a reduction in kidnapping incidents across parts of the South-West to improved cooperation between local security initiatives and government security agencies.

He said intelligence gathering from communities, combined with support from the police, military, Department of State Services (DSS), Ministry of Defence and the Office of the National Security Adviser, had helped strengthen security operations.

According to him, the collaboration has restored confidence among residents and demonstrated the importance of combining government efforts with local knowledge.

He specifically acknowledged the support of security officials, including the Minister of Defence, Christopher Musa, Inspector-General of Police Olatunji Disu, DSS Director-General Adeola Oluwatosin Ajayi and National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu.

“Without their backing, the successes we have recorded would not be possible,” he said.

Igboho also commended governors across the South-West for supporting the initiative and urged Nigerians to view security as a shared responsibility beyond ethnic, political or religious differences.

He encouraged continued cooperation between communities and government institutions, saying local participation remains critical in addressing insecurity.

The Iru Ekun Security Network was established as part of broader community-driven efforts aimed at improving intelligence gathering and supporting security operations in the region.