Insecurity: Ooni Donates N100m, Hilux To Igboho’s Iru Ekun Network
Eniola Yekini
The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, has donated ₦100 million and a brand-new Hilux vehicle to support the operations of the Iru Ekun Security Network, a community-based security outfit established by Yoruba Nation advocate, Sunday Adeyemo, popularly known as Sunday Igboho.
The donation was announced during a courtesy visit by Igboho and members of the security network to the Ooni’s Palace in Ile-Ife on Tuesday.
This was disclosed in a statement issued on Wednesday by the palace and signed by Sodiq Lawal on behalf of the Director of Media and Public Affairs, Moses Olafare.
According to the statement, the Ooni said the donation was aimed at strengthening grassroots security efforts and encouraging initiatives that promote peace and protect lives across Yorubaland.
Commending Igboho for establishing the Iru Ekun Security Network, the monarch described security as the foundation of sustainable development and urged all stakeholders to support genuine efforts aimed at safeguarding communities
“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.
The traditional ruler also called on Yoruba monarchs, community leaders, business executives, professionals and other stakeholders to unite in support of the security initiative.
“Our strength lies in our unity. When we speak with one voice and work together, no force can undermine the peace and progress of Yorubaland. This is the time for all lovers of Yoruba culture and heritage to unite for a common purpose,” he added.
Responding, Sunday Igboho expressed gratitude to the Ooni for the financial and logistics support describing the monarch as the father of the Yoruba people worldwide.
“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. I have come to receive his royal blessings as we continue our mission of protecting our people,” Igboho said.
He 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 guidance and royal support.
Igboho further disclosed plans to organise a security summit involving traditional rulers from across Yorubaland to deliberate on practical solutions to the region’s security challenges.
According to him, the proposed summit, subject to the Ooni’s approval, is expected to be hosted at the Ooni’s Palace in Ile-Ife.