The ancient town of Owo in Ondo State is under tension following the decision of the Olowo-in-Council to declare the suspended Chairman of Owo Local Government, Hon. Tope Omolayo, persona non grata within their domain.
Omolayo, who was suspended by the Owo Legislative Council a few weeks ago for alleged gross misconduct, was accused of making disparaging statements about the Olowo of Owo and Chairman of the Ondo State Council of Obas, His Imperial Majesty, Oba (Dr.) Ajibade Gbadegesin Ogunoye III, in a viral leaked video.
Although the embattled chairman had since publicly apologised to the monarch, describing his remarks as “thoughtless” and “disrespectful,” the Olowo-in-Council insisted that his apology could not undo the damage caused by his utterances.
Speaking on behalf of the council on Saturday, the Ogwadogbon of Owo, High Chief Ademola Obanonyen, condemned Omolayo’s statements as “an utter sacrilege and crass contempt” against the revered throne.
He said the council, acting to defend the integrity of the monarchy, had resolved that Omolayo be regarded as persona non grata, stressing that his continued stay as chairman was unacceptable to both the traditional leadership and the people of Owo.
“After thorough and sober deliberation, the Olowo-in-Council, speaking with one voice and acting in defence of the dignity of the Owo throne, hereby declares that the individual in question, by his reckless utterances and disrespectful conduct, has declared himself persona non grata within Owo Kingdom,” Obanonyen stated.
The High Chief noted that all Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs) under Owo Kingdom had unanimously condemned Omolayo’s behaviour, describing it as “regrettable and unfortunate.”
He further called on the Ondo State Government to take note of the situation and act in the interest of peace, emphasizing that the chairman’s actions had eroded the trust traditionally placed in holders of public office within the community.
The council’s resolution also described Omolayo’s conduct as “a direct provocation and an assault on the throne,” adding that any attempt to ridicule the Olowo was an insult to the entire Owo Kingdom, its ancestors, and collective heritage.
“The Olowo of Owo Kingdom is not only the custodian of our ancient traditions but also a symbol of unity, peace, and progress. Any attempt to ridicule the sacred institution he represents is an affront to the entire Owo Kingdom,” the council declared.
While reaffirming its commitment to peace, the Olowo-in-Council appealed to indigenes to remain calm and law-abiding, assuring that the dignity of the throne would be preserved through discipline and moral clarity rather than confrontation.
It warned that Owo Kingdom would not tolerate any act of insolence toward its throne, describing the institution as “a beacon of civilisation, wisdom, and dignity” that must be upheld at all times.
