Sunday Igboho security team ambushed IBADAN, OYO STATE – Several members of the Iru Ekun Security Network, a private security outfit linked to Yoruba Nation activist Sunday Adeyemo, popularly known as Sunday Igboho, suffered injuries after suspected bandits ambushed them during a security operation in Oyo State.
The attack reportedly happened inside the Old Oyo National Park. The operatives had entered the forest to flush out kidnappers and other armed gangs. Soon after, the gunmen opened fire, triggering a fierce gun battle.
According to reports, the security team acted on intelligence about criminal camps inside the forest. However, the suspected bandits launched a surprise attack before the operatives reached their target.
Several members of the outfit sustained gunshot wounds during the exchange. However, authorities have not confirmed the exact number of casualties.
Sources familiar with the operation said the attackers belong to cross-border criminal networks. The groups reportedly use the vast forest as a base for kidnapping and other violent crimes.
Despite the ambush, the operatives regrouped quickly. They returned fire and continued the operation to stop the gunmen from escaping into nearby forests.
Meanwhile, the attack came weeks after Sunday Igboho renewed his campaign against insecurity in the South-West. Through his spokesman, Olayomi Koiki, he stressed that his security efforts target criminals and not any ethnic group.
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“Our concern and primary focus have always been the protection of innocent lives and the preservation of peace, security and justice. We will never advocate hatred against any ethnic group. Criminals should be identified, arrested and prosecuted regardless of their ethnic or religious background because crime has no colour or race.”
Earlier this month, Igboho offered to deploy members of the Iru Ekun Security Network to public schools across Oyo State. He made the proposal after gunmen abducted pupils and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area.
His organisation urged Governor Seyi Makinde to approve the deployment. It argued that trained operatives could strengthen security around schools and prevent future attacks.
Meanwhile, news of the ambush spread quickly across X, Facebook and other social media platforms. Many users praised the operatives for confronting armed gangs despite the danger. Others urged the Federal Government and Oyo State Government to intensify security operations across forests in the South-West.
Several videos circulating online appeared to show members of the security outfit moving through dense vegetation before the attack. However, SOJWORLDNEWS could not independently verify when the videos were recorded or whether they showed the reported operation.
As of the time of filing this report, the Oyo State Police Command had not released an official statement on the incident. The Nigerian Army also remained silent, while Sunday Igboho had yet to comment publicly.
Nevertheless, residents living near the Old Oyo National Park have continued to demand stronger security. They want authorities to dismantle criminal camps and restore safety for farmers, travellers and local communities.
Security experts also believe closer collaboration among government agencies, local vigilantes and community intelligence networks will improve efforts to tackle armed gangs hiding inside forests across the South-West.
Keyphrase: Sunday Igboho security team ambushed
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