Tension has heightened in Okitipupa Local Government Area of Ondo State following demands by Ikale youths for the withdrawal of military personnel allegedly attached to the Coordinator of Tantita Security Services in the state, Idowu Asonja, as well as the relocation of the firm’s operational base.
The youths, in a statement jointly signed on Wednesday by community representatives, Bankole Monday and Tayo Obamoyegun, said the presence and activities of the personnel had stirred unease within the locality.
According to the statement, the community expressed concerns over what they described as actions and developments that have caused unease in the area.
They also alleged that recent incidents had created tension among residents and affected the relationship between local institutions and the security outfit.
The group further claimed that certain events had undermined the authority of traditional leadership in the community, noting that issues earlier tabled before the Jegun of Idepe-Okitipupa, His Royal Majesty Oba Michael Obatuga, remained unresolved.
They accused the Tantita coordinator of not honouring an invitation by the monarch to address the growing concerns.
The group maintained that addressing the issues was important for restoring stability and mutual respect.
They outlined four key demands, including the immediate withdrawal of military personnel allegedly being used by Asonja to intimidate civilians; relocation of Tantita Security Services’ office from Okitipupa to the designated riverine mandate area, since the community hosts no pipelines; a public apology to the Jegun of Idepe for alleged disrespect; and a comprehensive probe by Tantita CEO, High Chief Government Ekpemupolo (Tompolo), into allegations of corruption, including ghost workers, illegal recruitment and unpaid wages.
When contacted by on Wednesday, Asonja did not confirm or deny the claims as of the time of filing the report.
A source within Tantita Security Services, who asked not to be named, told DAILY POST that the company is engaging community leaders to resolve the situation and restore calm.