Tope Omolayo has been declared persona non grata in Owo by the Olowo-in-Council after allegedly insulting Oba Ajibade Ogunoye despite a public apology
Tope Omolayo, the recently suspended Chairman of Owo Local Government in Ondo State, has been declared persona non grata by the Olowo-in-Council following his alleged public insult against the town’s monarch, Oba Ajibade Ogunoye.
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The decision comes despite Omolayo’s earlier public apology after a viral audio clip captured him making disparaging remarks about the revered king shortly after his suspension by the local lawmakers.
Speaking on behalf of the Council, High Chief (Dr.) Ademola Obanonyen, the Ogwadogbon of Owo, said Omolayo’s presence as council chairman is no longer acceptable to both the people and traditional leadership of Owo Kingdom.
“The Olowo of Owo Kingdom is not just the custodian of our ancient traditions but also a symbol of unity, peace, and progress,” Obanonyen said.
“Any attempt to ridicule the person or sacred institution he represents is an insult to the entire Owo Kingdom, our ancestors, and our collective heritage.”
He described Omolayo’s conduct as a direct provocation and an assault on the throne, declaring that the Council had unanimously resolved to bar him from the kingdom.
Obanonyen further called on the Ondo State Government and relevant authorities to take note of the development and enforce administrative measures to preserve peace and respect for the traditional institution.
He stressed that the Council’s decision was not born out of malice but a commitment to uphold the dignity of the Olowo stool, warning that disrespect toward the monarchy would not be tolerated under any circumstances.
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With this declaration, political watchers believe Omolayo’s future in Owo’s local administration faces uncertainty, as the community’s traditional council has made its stance unmistakably clear.
Quadri Olaitan is a journalist and contributor to Freelanews.com, covering news, public affairs, and human-interest stories.
