Nigerian Army Orders Immediate Withdrawal Of Soldiers Attached To Tantita Coordinator In Ondo

Nigerian Army Orders Immediate Withdrawal Of Soldiers Attached To Tantita Coordinator In Ondo By Enock Damidami | Sele Media AfricaOndo / Okitipupa — The Nigerian Army has ordered the immediate withdrawal of all military personnel allegedly attached to Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited’s Ondo State coordinator, Idowu Asonja. The directive follows widespread public outrage over the use of soldiers as private escorts and alleged instruments of intimidation. [1] According to several security sources, the order — issued directly by the Army’s Chief of Staff — instructs that no soldier should henceforth act as Asonja’s bodyguard or accompany him to social events, traditional gatherings, nightlife venues, or any private engagements. All personnel must return immediately to their designated riverine and pipeline security postings. [1] What Sparked the DecisionMeanwhile, management of Tantita Security Services, in a separate development, announced the disengagement of one of its former staff members, Mr. Owoyele Omotuyi Joseph, over alleged involvement in illicit bunkering activities and suspected misconduct. The firm emphasized that he no longer represents them in any capacity. [4] What It Means Going Forward – The Army’s order highlights a renewed commitment to enforcing discipline and preventing misuse of military personnel for private or commercial interests. If properly enforced, it may set a precedent discouraging such practices. – For the communities affected — especially in Okitipupa — this could ease fears of intimidation, restore trust in rule of law, and pave the way for genuine resolution of grievances related to unpaid wages and alleged corruption. – However, many analysts warn that withdrawal alone may not suffice: what is urgently needed now is a transparent public investigation into the alleged misuse of funds, ghost payrolls, and alleged burning of properties — to ensure accountability and prevent recurrence. —The withdrawal order comes on the heels of intense backlash from residents of Okitipupa Local Government Area, where workers of Tantita had recently staged protests over alleged two‑year unpaid wages. The protesters accused Asonja of inflating the payroll with “ghost workers,” diverting funds, and using armed personnel including soldiers — to intimidate complainants. [2] Tensions escalated sharply after reports emerged alleging that Asonja led armed men to burn down the property of a community leader, following a dispute over alleged disruptive conduct. Youth groups and traditional leaders accused him of desecrating sacred institutions and undermining community peace. [1] Reaction from Communities and Stakeholders Members of the local community, particularly youth associations under the Ikale Youth Representatives, welcomed the Army’s decision, calling it a “first step toward justice and restoration of sanity.” They had earlier issued a four‑point demand: immediate withdrawal of soldiers, relocation of Tantita’s base out of Okitipupa (arguing the area hosts no pipelines), a public apology to the traditional ruler of Idepe‑Okitipupa, and a full investigation into alleged corrupt practices by Tantita. [3]Citations:1. Sahara Reporters: saharareporters.com/2025/12/06/nigerian-army-orders-immediate-withdrawal-soldiers-attached-tantita-services-coordinator?utm_2. Sahara Reporters: saharareporters.com/ikale-community-demands-relocation-tantita-office-accuses-ondo-coordinator-arson-using?utm_source=3. Africa Press English: www.africa-press.net/nigeria/policy/ikale-youths-demand-military-withdrawal-in-ondo?utm_source4. PM News Nigeria: pmnewsnigeria.com/tantita-security-disengages-former-staff-over-alleged-misconduct-in-ondo/?utm_source

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Enock Damidami

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