The suspension of Tope Omolayo, Executive Chairman of Owo Local Government, over alleged gross misconduct and a viral phone outburst against the Olowo of Owo Kingdom and Chairman of Ondo State Council of Obas, Ajibade Gbadegesin Ogunoye III, has taken a new turn.
The Olowo-in-Council, has however declared the embattled chairman persona-non-grata within the territory of Owo Kingdom.
Recall that Omolayo, who had earlier tendered an unreserved public apology during a press conference in Akure, was suspended by the Owo Local Government Legislative Council for alleged misconduct and disrespect to the traditional institution.
However, at a press briefing held at the Olowo’s Palace, the Olowo-in-Council maintained that his continued stay in office is no longer acceptable to the people and traditional leadership of Owo kingdom.
Reading the statement on behalf of the Council, the Ogwadogbon of Owo, Ademola Obanonyen, said the act amounted to “utter sacrilege and crass contempt” against the revered stool of the Olowo.
“The Council expresses its total outrage and unequivocal condemnation of the recent public insult and disrespect directed at His Imperial Majesty by an individual whose actions are nothing short of sacrilege,” Obanonyen stated.
He emphasised that the Council, acting in defence of the dignity of the Owo throne, had resolved that Omolayo be regarded as persona-non-grata in Owo Kingdom, adding that his “continued stay as Chairman of Owo Local Government Area is no longer acceptable.”
The Council also revealed that all LCDAs within Owo Kingdom had disassociated themselves from the conduct of the suspended Chairman, describing his outburst as “unfortunate and regrettable.”
Calling on the Ondo State Government to take “appropriate administrative steps in the interest of peace and mutual respect,” the Olowo-in-Council urged indigenes of Owo to remain calm and law-abiding.
The statement further reminded public office holders of the sanctity of traditional institutions, warning that “to insult the Olowo is to insult the entire Yoruba traditional system.”
“Our strength lies in our unity, discipline, and the respect we accord our revered institution,” the statement read. “The dignity of our throne shall be preserved, not through chaos, but through firmness of purpose and moral clarity.”
