Traditional Authorities Assert He’s Not Permitted in Owo Territory
The Olowo-in-Council, representing the paramount traditional hierarchy of Owo Kingdom, has officially banned the recently suspended Chairman of Owo Local Government, Honourable Tope Omolayo, from entering the Kingdom’s domain, effectively declaring him an unwelcome person.
This decree comes in the wake of Omolayo’s provisional removal from office by the Owo Local Government Legislative Council due to accusations of severe professional misconduct. The action was further precipitated by a widely circulated audio recording of a telephone argument in which he reportedly insulted the Olowo of Owo Kingdom and Chairman of the Ondo State Council of Obas, His Imperial Majesty, Oba (Dr.) Ajibade Gbadegesin Ogunoye III.
Even though the Chairman, now embroiled in controversy, issued a public apology during a media event in Akure, the Olowo-in-Council insisted during a briefing at the Olowo’s Palace on Friday that his persistent occupation of the office is unacceptable to both the local populace and the Kingdom’s traditional administrators.
Speaking for the Council, High Chief (Dr.) Ademola Obanonyen, the Ogwadogbon of Owo, read the resolution, stating that Omolayo’s actions constituted an “absolute violation of sacred principles and blatant disrespect” for the respected position held by the Olowo.
He underlined the Council’s decision to defend the honour of the Owo stool, confirming the consensus that Hon. Omolayo should be treated as an undesirable visitor within Owo Kingdom. Chief Obanonyen added that the Council could no longer tolerate his continued tenure as Chairman of the Owo Local Government Area.
Furthermore, the Council disclosed that all Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs) within Owo Kingdom have distanced themselves from the suspended Chairman’s conduct, calling his verbal attack “unfortunate and deeply regrettable.”
The Olowo-in-Council appealed to the Ondo State Government to implement “necessary administrative measures for the preservation of tranquility and mutual respect,” while simultaneously advising Owo citizens to remain composed and obey the law.
The resolution also served as a reminder to individuals holding public office regarding the fundamental sanctity of traditional institutions, cautioning that “to denigrate the Olowo is to show contempt for the entire Yoruba customary system.
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