Permanent Chairman of the Southern Nigerian Traditional Rulers Council, the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, Ojaja II, has donated the sum of ₦100 million and a brand-new Hilux vehicle to support the operations of the Iru Ekun Security Network, a community-based security initiative established by renowned Yoruba Nation advocate, Chief Sunday Adeyemo, popularly known as Sunday Igboho.
The royal gesture was announced by the Ooni on Tuesday evening during a courtesy visit by Chief Sunday Igboho and members of the Iru Ekun Security Network to the Ooni’s Palace in Ile-Ife.
In a statement issued by the Senior Media Officer, Ooni’s Palace, Sodiq Lawal, on behalf of the Director of Media and Public Affairs, Otunba Moses Olafare, the revered monarch described the security initiative as a timely intervention aimed at complementing existing security efforts towards safeguarding lives and property of the Yoruba people.
The Ooni, who is the Arole Oodua Olofin Adimula and the Natural Head of the Oduduwa race worldwide, commended Chief Sunday Igboho for his courage, resilience and unwavering commitment to the security and collective wellbeing of the Yoruba race, noting that genuine leadership is demonstrated through selfless service and practical contributions to the development of society.
According to the Ooni, every responsible son and daughter of Oduduwa has a duty to contribute meaningfully to the peace, unity and prosperity of Yorubaland, stressing that security remains the foundation upon which sustainable development can thrive.
The Ooni said the donation was not merely a financial contribution but a demonstration of his commitment to initiatives that promote peace, communal harmony and the protection of the Yoruba people.
“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 stated.
The foremost Yoruba monarch urged prominent Yoruba sons and daughters, traditional rulers, traditionalists, community leaders, business executives, professionals and all stakeholders across the globe to rally behind the Iru Ekun.
Describing Sunday Igboho as a courageous and determined patriot, the foremost African Monarch said history would always remember individuals who chose to stand for the protection of their people at critical moments.
“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,” the Ooni added.
Responding, Chief Sunday Igboho expressed profound appreciation to the Ooni for the generous support and fatherly encouragement extended to the Iru Ekun Security Network.
He described the Ooni as a God-sent leader whose humility, wisdom and commitment to the unity of the Yoruba race have continued to inspire millions of 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 said.
He noted that the visit was not only to brief the Ooni on the progress of the Iru Ekun Security Network but also to seek his continued royal guidance, prayers and endorsement for the initiative.
Chief Igboho further disclosed plans to organise a summit that will bring together traditional rulers from across Yorubaland to deliberate on practical solutions to security challenges confronting the region.
According to him, the proposed summit, subject to the approval and blessings of the Ooni, is expected to hold at the Ooni’s Palace in Ile-Ife, regarded as the ancestral and spiritual headquarters of the Yoruba people.
He reaffirmed the commitment of the Iru Ekun Security Network to operating within the law while collaborating with relevant authorities and local communities in promoting peace, intelligence gathering and community policing across Yorubaland.
