Forcibly Resumption : Owo LG legislative tell Court to restrain suspended chairman as owo youths threatened showdown

The Legislative Council of Owo Local Government Area has approached the court with an urgent motion to restrain suspended Chairman, Hon. Tope Omolayo, from any attempt to forcibly resume office. This decisive step comes amid escalating threats from Owo youths, who have publicly vowed a showdown should Hon. Omolayo defy his suspension and attempt to return, potentially sparking violent unrest in our community.

The Council, invoking its constitutional powers under the Ondo State Local Government Law, suspended Hon. Omolayo in October 2025 following a two thirds majority vote by its 11 members, led by House Leader Hon. Doyin Adebayo. The suspension addressed grave allegations including gross misconduct, abuse of office, financial mismanagement, budget violations, breaches of Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) guidelines, and open disrespect toward traditional rulers, notably a viral voice note insulting the Olowo of Owo, Oba Ajibade Gbadegesin Ogunoye III.

We stand firmly by the Vice Chairman, Hon. Hamed Ibrahim, who has been acting in the role since the suspension to ensure seamless governance and continuity. Hon. Omolayos rejection of the suspension as politically motivated does not alter its legality, and the Councils court action is solely to preserve peace while legal processes unfold.

The full backing of the Owo youths for the Legislative Arm underscores widespread community support for accountability and due process over personal ambition. Recent escalations, including the Olowo in Councils declaration of Hon. Omolayo as persona non grata in November 2025 and subsequent youth protests at Mapo Hall, highlight the fragile security situation we must avert.

In line with the Olowos wise counsel for calm and adherence to the rule of law, the Legislative Council appeals to all parties, youths, residents, political actors, and Hon. Omolayo himself, to eschew confrontation. Let the court deliver justice without recourse to self help or violence.

Owo remains greater than any individual, and good governance demands collective restraint.