Yoruba nation activist and founder of the Iru Ekun Security Network, Sunday Adeyemo, popularly known as Sunday Igboho, has vowed to sustain efforts against bandits, kidnappers and other criminal elements operating across the South-West.

Igboho made the declaration on Thursday during the launch of the Iru Ekun Security Network in Akure, the Ondo State capital, saying the group would continue working to improve security across the region.

He attributed the recent reduction in kidnapping, banditry and other violent crimes in parts of Yorubaland to the support and cooperation received from the Police, Nigerian Army, Department of State Services and other security agencies.

According to him, security should be treated as a collective responsibility regardless of political, ethnic or religious differences.

Igboho said the primary objective of the security initiative was to restore the confidence of residents in the ability of government and security agencies to provide a peaceful and safe environment for communities and economic activities.

He maintained that criminal activities allegedly linked to rogue herders, bandits and kidnappers had reduced in some communities since the commencement of operations by Iru Ekun with the backing of conventional security agencies.

He, however, stressed that the security network would not relent in its efforts to make forests, highways and farming communities across the South-West safer.

“We are not backing down or relenting until we make the South-West forests, highways and agrarian communities safe for all,” Igboho said.

He also urged volunteers in the security network to work within the law and cooperate with security agencies whenever they identify suspected criminal activities.

Igboho specifically warned members not to confront criminals on their own without first notifying the Police or other relevant security agencies in their areas.

He disclosed that the group had recently lost one of its members, who was killed by armed bandits during a confrontation in Iwere-Ile.

He consequently urged volunteers to remain alert and avoid unnecessary risks while carrying out their responsibilities.

Igboho said the security network remained determined to continue its campaign against kidnapping, banditry and other criminal activities in the South-West.

He also expressed support for the administration of President Bola Tinubu, saying effective security was necessary for the economic and social development of the region.

Meanwhile, Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa and prominent traditional rulers in the state have expressed support for the Iru Ekun initiative.

The Deji of Akure, Oba Adetoyinbo Aladelusi, and the Olowo of Owo, Oba Ajibade Gbadegesin, reportedly pledged their support for the operations of the security network.

The traditional rulers also urged residents to cooperate with security agencies and support efforts aimed at maintaining peace and protecting communities.

The development comes amid continuing efforts to tackle kidnapping, banditry and other security challenges across the South-West.

Igboho’s latest declaration signals that Iru Ekun intends to maintain its presence in the region while working alongside established security agencies to address criminal activities.