Yoruba Nation activist, Sunday Adeyemo, popularly known as Sunday Igboho, has launched the Iru Ekun Security Network in Kwara State, pledging to rid the state’s forests of bandits and other criminal elements.

Speaking during the official launch in Ilorin on Thursday, Igboho declared that forests across the state would no longer serve as safe havens for criminals. He emphasized that the newly established outfit would complement the efforts of government and conventional security agencies in tackling insecurity, including kidnapping and banditry.

According to him, the group’s immediate operations will focus on Babanla and Eruku communities, which he identified as hotspots of criminal activity.

“The presence of the Iru Ekun Security Network has already unsettled criminals. We are heading to Babanla, now described as a stronghold of bandits. We will also return to Eruku. This is our ancestral land, and no criminal can force us out,” he said.

Igboho stressed that the initiative was not created to replace existing security agencies but to strengthen collaboration with them in restoring peace.

“Our mission is to support government efforts. Local communities alone cannot tackle insecurity. We must work with the police, military and other agencies. With unity, we can drastically reduce these crimes,” he added.

He further alleged that banditry persists due to collaboration from insiders within communities, urging residents, especially youths, to expose criminal elements.

“Bandits are not spirits. Some individuals within our communities provide them with support. It is time to hold ourselves accountable and defend our communities,” he said.

Addressing concerns about ethnic bias, Igboho dismissed claims that the outfit targets any particular group, including Fulani communities.

“We have no issue with any ethnic group. Our fight is strictly against criminals, regardless of where they come from. We are all Nigerians,” he stated.

He also cautioned residents against taking the law into their own hands, advising that suspects without weapons should be handed over to security agencies.

Igboho commended the Kwara State Commissioner of Police, Adekimi Ojo, for his professionalism and support during previous operations, noting that collaboration between local initiatives and formal security structures remains essential.

He also dismissed rumours that Kwara State Governor, Dr. Abdulrahman Abdulrazak, opposed his visit, expressing confidence that the governor shares concerns over rising insecurity.

In addition, he attributed the emergence of the Iru Ekun Security Network to President Bola Tinubu, offering prayers for his leadership and continued success.

The launch comes amid escalating insecurity in parts of Kwara South Senatorial District, where repeated attacks have displaced residents and forced some traditional rulers to flee their communities.

Despite earlier controversies surrounding his visit, the event proceeded in Ilorin, with Igboho reaffirming that the security outfit would operate in partnership with the Nigeria Police Force and other recognized agencies to combat insecurity across the state.