By Adeboye Ado
Tension has gripped Owo Kingdom following the decision of the Olowo-in-Council to declare the suspended Chairman of Owo Local Government, Hon. Tope Omolayo, persona non grata within the community.
The move came after Omolayo’s suspension by the Owo Legislative Council over alleged gross misconduct and his viral phone outburst against the Olowo of Owo and Chairman of the Ondo State Council of Obas, His Imperial Majesty, Oba (Dr.) Ajibade Gbadegesin Ogunoye III.
Howbeit the embattled chairman had tendered a public apology in Akure, the Olowo-in-Council, during a press briefing at the palace on Friday, said his continued stay in office was unacceptable to both the people and traditional leadership of Owo.
Speaking on behalf of the Council, the Ogwadogbon of Owo, High Chief (Dr.) Ademola Obanonyen, described Omolayo’s action as “utter sacrilege and crass contempt” against the revered throne of the Olowo.
He said the Council, acting to protect the dignity of the monarchy, resolved that Omolayo should be regarded as persona non grata in Owo, insisting that his “continued stay as Chairman of Owo Local Government Area is no longer acceptable.”
The Council disclosed that all local council development areas (LCDAs) within Owo Kingdom had distanced themselves from Omolayo’s conduct, describing his remarks as “unfortunate and regrettable.”
Urging calm among residents, the Olowo-in-Council called on the Ondo State Government to take necessary administrative measures to safeguard peace, while reminding public officials that “to insult the Olowo is to insult the entire Yoruba traditional system.”