Report says the suspended Chairman of the Owo Local government, Hon Omolayo resumed in his office today amidst palpable tension, even as the Councillors insisted that their action stands.
Below is the latest position of the councillors;
*PRESS RELEASE*
OWO LOCAL GOVERNMENT LEGISLATIVE HOUSE
*DATE: OCTOBER 16, 2025*
*SUBJECT: CLARIFICATION ON THE SUSPENSION OF HON. TOPE OMOLAYO, CHAIRMAN OF OWO LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA*
The Legislative Arm of Owo Local Government wishes to address the public regarding the suspension of Hon. Tope Omolayo, Chairman of Owo Local Government Area. This decision was taken with due process, in line with our constitutional mandate to uphold accountability, transparency, and good governance.
We understand that there have been insinuations and misinformation suggesting that the Legislative House was not properly convened during the session that led to the suspension. We hereby categorically state that this is false and misleading. The Legislative House was duly convened, and all statutory procedures were strictly followed.
To provide clarity:
1. *Attendance and Quorum*: In an extraordinary show of commitment, 10 out of 11 councillors were present at the sitting, forming a quorum far above the requirements for legislative proceedings.
2. *Presence of Key Officials*: The Clerk, Deputy Clerk, and Sergeant-at-Arms were all present to ensure the proper conduct of the sitting.
3. *Symbol of Authority*: The legislative mace, as the recognized symbol of authority, was properly positioned throughout the sitting.
4. *Legislative Activities*: Before the suspension was effected, the House deliberated extensively and even passed a bill ,A Bill To STOP THE use of Siren without official Authority For Owo Local Government Area into law, demonstrating that the sitting was properly constituted and productive.
The decision to suspend Hon. Tope Omolayo was not taken lightly. It was necessitated by allegations of gross misconduct, including financial improprieties, violation of statutory regulations, and other acts unbecoming of his office. These are serious issues that require thorough investigation.
Let it be clear that the legislative arm exists to ensure *checks and balances* within the government. God forbid that such a vital principle of governance is eroded, allowing the executive to act without accountability. The Legislative House has fulfilled its duty to protect the integrity of governance in Owo Local Government Area.
We also want to address reports of intimidation and threats against members of the House. It is deeply disturbing that, rather than addressing the allegations leveled against him, the suspended Chairman has allegedly resorted to involving an opposition party-aligned (a union leader) to issue threats, including death threats, against honorable members who have discharged their responsibilities transparently and in the best interest of the people.
This behavior is unacceptable and unbecoming of a leader. We call on the relevant authorities, including security agencies, to take immediate action to investigate these threats and ensure the safety of all members of the Legislative House. No honorable member should be subjected to intimidation or harassment for performing their constitutional duties.
We urge Hon. Tope Omolayo to focus on addressing the serious allegations against him in a manner befitting his position as a public servant, rather than engaging in actions that undermine the integrity of the legislative process or threaten the peace and stability of Owo Local Government Area.
The Legislative Arm remains committed to its constitutional responsibility to uphold transparency, accountability, and the rule of law. We assure the good people of Owo that our actions are driven solely by the best interests of the community and the principles of good governance.
We call on all stakeholders, including traditional rulers, community leaders, and the general public, to remain calm and support the legislative process as we work diligently to ensure justice and accountability prevail. The Legislative House will not be swayed by threats or distractions and will continue to stand firm in the discharge of its duties.
Thank you.
Signed,
Hon. Owamoyo Tolani Okolo, Majority Leader,
Chairman house committee on Information, Media and publicity, Owo local government legislative council.
SUSPENDED CHAIRMAN REACTS
The political atmosphere in Owo Local Government Area of Ondo State took a dramatic turn on Thursday as the suspended Chairman, Tope Moses, resumed office despite reports of his indefinite suspension by the Legislative Council.
Omolayo, who stormed his office, described the suspension reports as baseless and politically motivated.
Speaking in Owo, the embattled council boss insisted that he remains the duly recognized chairman of Owo Local Government, stressing that no formal communication or letter of suspension had been served on him.
