Fact Check: Sunday Igboho Has Not Launched 50,000-Man Army in Southwest — Here’s the Truth

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Viral reports claiming that Yoruba nation activist Sunday Igboho has officially launched a 50,000-man security force across the Southwest and Kwara State have been found to be false and misleading.

The claims, which spread rapidly on social media and several blogs, alleged that Igboho had already deployed a massive armed network known as the “Iru Ekun Security Network” to combat bandits, kidnappers, and criminal gangs operating in forests across Yorubaland.

However, checks show that no such operational 50,000-man force has been formally launched as of May 21, 2026.

What is actually happening is that Sunday Igboho has proposed the creation of a regional security outfit called the Iru Ekun Security Network, also referred to in some statements as “Ija Ekun” or “Tiger Force.”

The activist recently stated that preparations have been completed and that he is capable of mobilizing up to 50,000 hunters, volunteers, and local operatives to support efforts against insecurity in the Southwest.

His renewed campaign reportedly followed recent kidnapping incidents and attacks in parts of Oyo State and other areas within the region.

Despite the strong statements, Igboho has repeatedly maintained that the proposed security outfit would not commence operations without official approval from the Federal Government, Southwest governors, and security agencies.

According to sources familiar with the development, the activist is currently seeking formal backing to avoid conflict with existing security institutions.

The viral misinformation appears to have originated from exaggerated interpretations of Igboho’s recent interviews and public remarks, where he spoke about his readiness to tackle insecurity and his ability to mobilize thousands of supporters if granted approval.

Several online platforms reportedly twisted those comments into claims that the force had already been launched and deployed.

As of the time of this report, there has been no official confirmation from the Presidency, the Nigeria Police Force, or any Southwest state government approving the operation of the proposed Iru Ekun Security Network.

The controversy comes amid growing public concerns over insecurity in parts of Southwest Nigeria, where cases of kidnapping, armed robbery, and attacks on rural communities continue to generate anxiety among residents.

Security analysts say the widespread circulation of the claim reflects increasing frustration over insecurity and growing public demand for stronger local security initiatives.

While Sunday Igboho continues to advocate for the creation of the proposed security network and insists he can mobilize thousands of volunteers, there is currently no evidence that a 50,000-man army has been officially unveiled or deployed.

The viral claim remains inaccurate.