Residents of Ipoti-Ekiti have called on the Nigerian Army to reconsider its decision to relocate the 148 Battalion from their community, citing economic and developmental concerns. In a statement signed by Dr. (Hon.) Lai Oke, Mr. Adedayo Babajide, and Barrister Gbenga Awoyomi, the group, under the aegis of Ipoti Ekiti Patriotic Indigene, expressed disappointment over the move, which they believe will marginalize the town.
The statement highlighted that Ipoti-Ekiti was designated as the permanent location for the 148 Battalion over a decade ago, with land acquired and infrastructure built for its operations. However, the barracks have been inactive since last year, and the recent decision to relocate it to another town has sparked outrage. The group argued that the reasons provided for the relocation are unconvincing, especially given the existence of a nearby barracks in Akure.
Residents accused authorities of a history of politically unfavorable decisions against Ipoti-Ekiti, referencing past attempts to undermine the town’s development, including the near-relocation of Irede LCDA headquarters in 2022. They appealed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Governor Biodun Oyebanji, and the Chief of Army Staff to reverse the decision, emphasizing the need for fairness, unity, and equity.
The community urged the government to stop the trend of relocating public institutions for political convenience, warning that such actions could fuel resentment and harm communal harmony. They called on the Ekiti State Governor to take swift action to restore the barracks, underscoring the need to prioritize justice and inclusive growth in national development.
