The crisis surrounding the suspended Executive Chairman of Owo Local Government, Mr. Tope Omolayo, has deepened as the Olowo-in-Council declared him persona non grata within the Owo Kingdom.
Mr. Omolayo’s suspension followed allegations of gross misconduct and a viral phone conversation in which he was accused of making disparaging remarks against the Olowo of Owo Kingdom, His Imperial Majesty, Oba (Dr.) Ajibade Gbadegesin Ogunoye III.
Although the embattled chairman had earlier tendered a public apology during a press conference in Akure, the Owo Local Government Legislative Council moved to suspend him for acts considered disrespectful to the traditional institution.
Addressing journalists at the Olowo’s Palace, members of the Olowo-in-Council reaffirmed their rejection of Omolayo’s continued stay in office, describing it as “unacceptable to the people and traditional leadership of Owo.”
The council further urged the Ondo State Government and relevant authorities to take due cognisance of the development and initiate appropriate administrative action to safeguard peace, order, and respect for Owo’s cultural heritage.
Reiterating the importance of mutual respect between political and traditional leaders, the council cautioned that “no community can thrive when its values and heritage are undermined.”
