Tension is rising in Okitipupa Local Government Area of Ondo State as Ikale youths have called for the withdrawal of military personnel reportedly attached to the Coordinator of Tantita Security Services in the state, Idowu Asonja, and for the relocation of the company’s operational base.
The youths made their position known in a statement issued on Wednesday by community representatives, Bankole Monday and Tayo Obamoyegun.
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 youths further claimed that certain events had undermined the authority of traditional leadership in the community, noting that issues raised before the Jegun of Idepe-Okitipupa, His Royal Majesty Oba Michael Obatuga, were yet to be resolved.
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.
The youths issued four 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, as the community has no pipelines; A public apology from Asonja to the Jegun of Idepe for the alleged disrespect and a thorough investigation by Tantita CEO, High Chief Government Ekpemupolo (Tompolo), into claims of corruption, including alleged ghost workers, illegal employment practices, and unpaid salaries.
When contacted by DAILY POST 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.