The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, Ojaja II, has donated ₦100 million and a Hilux van to support the operations of the Iru Ekun Security Network, a community security outfit established by Yoruba Nation activist, Sunday Adeyemo, popularly known as Sunday Igboho.
The monarch announced the donation during a courtesy visit by Adeyemo and members of the security network to the Ooni’s Palace in Ile-Ife.
According to a statement issued by the monarch’s spokesman, Sodiq Lawal, the Ooni described the donation as a personal contribution towards initiatives aimed at promoting peace, communal harmony and the protection of lives and property across Yorubaland.
Oba Ogunwusi commended Sunday Igboho for what he described as his courage, resilience and commitment to improving security in the region.
He said protecting the lives of the people was a collective responsibility that should transcend political, religious and ideological differences.
“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 monarch said.
The Ooni also urged Yoruba people to remain united in pursuit of peace, security and development, stressing that collective action was essential to safeguarding the region.
Responding, Sunday Igboho expressed appreciation to the monarch for the financial support and encouragement given to the Iru Ekun Security Network.
He described the Ooni as a father figure to Yoruba people across the world and thanked him for his blessings and continued support.
Adeyemo said the visit was aimed at updating the traditional ruler on the activities of the security network while seeking his guidance, prayers and endorsement.
He also announced plans to organise a security summit involving Yoruba traditional rulers to discuss practical solutions to the security challenges facing the South-West.
According to him, the proposed summit, subject to the Ooni’s approval, is expected to hold at the Ooni’s Palace in Ile-Ife, regarded as the ancestral and spiritual home of the Yoruba people.
Adeyemo reaffirmed the commitment of the Iru Ekun Security Network to operate within the law and collaborate with relevant security agencies and local communities to strengthen intelligence gathering, community policing and peacebuilding across Yorubaland.
