The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, Ojaja II, has donated N100 million and a Hilux van to support the operations of the Iru Ekun Security Network, established by Yoruba Nation activist Sunday Adeyemo, aka Sunday Igboho.
A statement by Sodiq Lawal, the monarch’s spokesman, said the Ooni announced the donations on Tuesday during a courtesy visit by Mr Adeyemo and members of the security network to the monarch’s palace in Ile-Ife.
Mr Ogunwusi explained that his donation was a personal commitment to initiatives that promote peace, communal harmony and the protection of the Yoruba people.
The Osun monarch commended Mr Adeyemo for displaying courage, resilience and unwavering commitment to the security and collective well-being of the Yoruba race.
“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.
“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,” Mr Ogunwusi said.
Reacting to the gesture, Mr Adeyemo thanked the monarch for his generous support and the encouragement extended to the security network.
“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,” Mr Adeyemo said.
He explained that the purpose of his visit was not only to brief the traditional ruler on the progress of the security network but also to seek his royal guidance, prayers, and endorsement.
Mr Adeyemo announced plans to organise a summit that will bring together Yoruba traditional rulers to deliberate on practical solutions that would assist in addressing security challenges confronting the region.
He revealed that the proposed summit, subject to the approval and blessings of the Ooni, would be held at the Ooni’s palace in Ile-Ife, widely considered as the ancestral and spiritual headquarters of the Yoruba people.
Mr Adeyemo reiterated the security network’s commitment to operate within the law, while collaborating with relevant authorities and local communities to promote peace, intelligence gathering, and community policing across Yorubaland.