The political situation in the Owo Local Government Area of Ondo State became quite dramatic on Thursday as the Executive Chairman of the Owo Local Government Area, Hon. Tope Moses, resumed office despite his pending indefinite suspension by the Legislative Council comprised of elected Councillors.
You will recall that The Legal Observer earlier reported that Councillors in the Local Council earlier suspended the Chairman.
Drama Unfolds as 11 Councillors Suspend LGA Chairman Indefinitely in Ondo – Citizens Protest
Omolayo, who defied suspension to return to his desk for official duties, described the alleged suspension as baseless, politically motivated, and a product of online propaganda.
Addressing newsmen, the council boss reiterated that he remains the duly recognized chairman of Owo Local Government, further emphasizing that no formal communication or letter of suspension had been communicated to him.
“Those are elements of destruction. I didn’t receive any letter from them; we were even together at the same programme yesterday,” Omolayo stated.
He alleged that the crisis was financially driven, claiming that certain political figures had demanded kickbacks from council funds.
“Some leaders were not happy with our work. They said I should stop all security activities in Owo. They asked for 30 percent of project money and even demanded ₦25 million from me. I said no. All they wanted was money,” he said.
Omolayo maintained that he remains in control of the council, dismissing the suspension announcement as a “kangaroo online publication.”
“As far as we are concerned, nothing is happening. I am not impeached. I am not suspended. It’s just online propaganda,” he declared.
He also refuted allegations of disrespect toward traditional rulers, urging reporters to verify from monarchs in Owo.
“Call Kabiyesi Ojomo, Olupele, Oluyere, Olowo, Elemure, or Oloba. They will tell you the truth,” he said.
Earlier in the day, Omolayo officially resumed at the council secretariat, pledging renewed commitment to service delivery, transparency, and development in Owo Local Government.
“My return signals renewed progress. We will sustain ongoing projects, initiate new ones, and ensure every ward benefits,” he said.
The development has deepened the ongoing power tussle between the legislative and executive arms of the council, with observers warning that the dispute could further polarize the local political structure.
