Sunday Igboho Seeks Government Backing to Flush Out Bandits from South-West Forests

Yoruba Nation activist, Sunday Igboho, has declared his readiness to lead operations aimed at rooting out bandits, kidnappers and other criminal elements hiding in forests across the South-West region.

The activist, whose real name is Sunday Adeyemo, made the declaration amid growing concerns over insecurity and rising cases of abduction in parts of Oyo State and neighbouring communities.

According to reports, Igboho said he and his loyalists were fully prepared to comb forests in Yorubaland and confront criminal gangs allegedly terrorising residents, farmers and travellers. He, however, stressed that he was awaiting official approval from the Federal Government, South-West governors and relevant security agencies before launching any operation.

Speaking in reaction to recent kidnappings in Oyo State, including attacks on schools in Oriire Local Government Area, Igboho described the situation as “sad and worrisome,” insisting that communities in the South-West could no longer continue to live under fear of bandits and kidnappers.

He disclosed that plans had already been concluded for the takeoff of a security outfit known as the Iru Ekun Security Network, which he said was designed to flush criminal elements out of forests across the region. According to him, the initiative would work in collaboration with security stakeholders if officially approved.

“We are battle-ready with our men to storm these forests and flush out marauders,” Igboho was quoted as saying while urging traditional rulers and political leaders in the South-West to support efforts aimed at restoring peace and security.

The development comes as insecurity continues to generate tension in several rural communities across the South-West, with residents repeatedly calling for stronger local security measures to tackle kidnapping and violent attacks.

Igboho rose to national prominence in 2021 following his campaigns against criminal herders and kidnappers operating in parts of Oyo State and the wider South-West region.