By Adeola Badru

A group, the Ifelodun Federation of Igboho Indigenes (FII) has described the intervention of Chief Sunday Adeyemo, popularly known as Sunday Igboho, through his Iru Ekun Security Network, alongside the support of President Bola Tinubu and other security stakeholders, as instrumental in improving security and restoring hope across parts of Oyo State.

This was contained in a statement issued yesterday and signed by the chairman of the group, Alhaji Ahmed Adegoke, adding that Igboho’s rescue of kidnapped victims in the Oke Ogun area of the state, had rekindled hope among residents and contributed to improved security across affected communities.

The group also commended President Tinubu, Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Tunji Disu, Director-General of the Department of State Services (DSS), Oluwatosin Adeola Ajayi, and other key stakeholders for supporting security efforts led by Yoruba activist.

According to the statement, communities in Oke Ogun had endured years of insecurity marked by repeated cases of killings, kidnappings and violent attacks, leaving residents, farmers, traders, transporters and business owners living in constant fear.

“Farmers, traders, transporters, business owners, and innocent residents have lived under fear as many families have reportedly paid huge sums of money to secure the freedom of their loved ones,” Adegoke said.

The group expressed appreciation to President Tinubu, the Inspector-General of Police, the Director-General of the DSS, the Chief of Army Staff, the National Security Adviser, heads of other security agencies, traditional rulers and socio-cultural organisations for their support towards strengthening security operations in the region.

“But we want to appreciate President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the IGP, DG DSS, Chief of Army Staff, National Security Adviser, heads of other security agencies, the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Akeem Owoade, and the leadership of Pan Yoruba Sociocultural group, Afenifere, for supporting Igboho’s security team,” Adegoke said.

While calling for the continuation of coordinated security measures to address criminal activities in Oke Ogun and other parts of Oyo State, the group stressed the need for sustained collaboration among security agencies, communities and local stakeholders.

“We equally appreciate the Commissioner of Police, Oyo State Command, and all security personnel whose professionalism and cooperation contributed to efforts aimed at restoring peace in our communities,” the statement added.

The group also highlighted the recent rescue of Alhaja Kubura Aliqlas and her two-year-old son, Abdulmalik, as a reflection of the serious security challenges confronting residents of the area.

“During this difficult period, the intervention of Chief Oloye Sunday Adeyemo (Sunday Igboho) and members of his security team brought renewed confidence and hope to many residents who had been living in fear,” the statement noted.

The FII further appealed to community leaders, including representatives of Fulani associations and other ethnic groups residing in the area, to support lawful security operations and reject any actions that could assist criminals.

“Furthermore, we respectfully urge all community leaders, including representatives of Fulani associations and every ethnic group residing within our communities, to cooperate fully with lawful security operations and to discourage anyone who may aid, encourage, or shield criminal elements,” the statement said.

The group reaffirmed its commitment to supporting initiatives aimed at achieving lasting peace, safety and development across Oke Ogun and Oyo State.