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The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan 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 activist, Chief Sunday Adeyemo, popularly known as Sunday Igboho.
The donation was announced during a courtesy visit by Sunday Igboho and members of the security outfit to the Ooni’s Palace in Ile-Ife on Tuesday.
This was disclosed in a statement issued by the palace on Wednesday and signed by Sodiq Lawal on behalf of the Director of Media and Public Affairs, Moses Olafare.
According to the statement, the Ooni, who is the Permanent Chairman of the Southern Nigerian Traditional Rulers Council (SNTRC) and the Natural Head of the Oduduwa race worldwide, described the initiative as a commendable effort aimed at strengthening community security across Yorubaland.
Commending Sunday Igboho for his commitment to the safety and well-being of the Yoruba people, the monarch stressed that security remains the foundation for sustainable development.
"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 revered monarch also called on traditional rulers, community leaders, business executives, professionals and other well-meaning Yoruba stakeholders to support the Iru Ekun Security Network in its efforts to improve grassroots security.
He emphasized that unity among the Yoruba people is essential in tackling insecurity and safeguarding the region.
"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.
In his response, Sunday Igboho expressed profound appreciation to the Ooni for the generous donation and described the monarch as a father figure to all Yoruba people across the world.
"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 stated.
He explained that the visit was also an opportunity to brief the monarch on the activities and achievements of the Iru Ekun Security Network while seeking his continued royal guidance and support.
Igboho further disclosed that plans are underway to organize a security summit involving traditional rulers from across Yorubaland to deliberate on practical and lasting solutions to the growing security challenges facing the region.
According to him, the proposed summit, subject to the approval of the Ooni of Ife, is expected to be held at the Ooni's Palace in Ile-Ife.
The donation is expected to boost the operational capacity of the Iru Ekun Security Network as efforts continue to enhance community policing and strengthen security across Yorubaland.