The launch took place on Thursday in Ilorin, where Igboho asserted that the new security outfit aims to reclaim local forests from bandits and enhance the safety of affected communities.
Igboho emphasized that the initiative is designed to support government and conventional security forces in combating kidnapping, banditry, and other violent crimes. He specifically identified the communities of Babanla and Eruku as critical areas requiring immediate attention.
“The establishment of the Iru Ekun Security Network has already unsettled criminals in Kwara. We will be deploying our operatives to Babanla, a known bandit stronghold, and will revisit Eruku, which has faced significant insecurity,” Igboho stated, vowing that no criminal would drive residents from their ancestral lands.
He clarified that the network's purpose is not to replace the police or military but to work alongside them to restore peace.
“Local communities can play a role in their own protection, but we must collaborate with existing security agencies to effectively reduce violence across the state,” he asserted.
Igboho urged residents to take responsibility for their communities, calling on the youth to assist in exposing criminal activity. “Bandits operate with the support of local collaborators.
It's time for us to hold ourselves accountable,” he said, warning that anyone found aiding criminal activities would face consequences.
Addressing concerns that the Iru Ekun Security Network targets specific ethnic groups, Igboho insisted that the operations are directed solely at criminals, regardless of their background. “Our fight is against crime, not against any ethnic group,” he stated.
He also praised the Kwara State Commissioner of Police, Adekimi Ojo, for his professionalism and willingness to collaborate with local initiatives. “During our operations, the police have supported our efforts, demonstrating commitment to restoring security,” he noted.
Despite rumors suggesting that Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq opposed Igboho’s visit, the activist expressed confidence that the governor is concerned about increasing violence in the state. “I believe the governor is as troubled by the security situation as we are,” he remarked.
Igboho attributed the establishment of the security network to President Bola Tinubu, expressing hope for the President’s continued health and successful tenure. He reaffirmed that the Iru Ekun Security Network would operate in conjunction with the Nigeria Police Force and other recognized security agencies.
The launch of the Iru Ekun Security Network comes amid escalating insecurity in parts of Kwara South Senatorial District, prompting fears among residents and traditional leaders alike.
As the initiative unfolds, it seeks to establish a framework for community-led security efforts to combat the pervasive threat of banditry in the region.
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