Fresh crisis looms in Ondo as lawmakers oppose suspended chairman’s reinstatement

By Boye Oyeyemi

Tension is mounting in Ondo State following a move by some lawmakers in Owo Local Government to halt the planned return of suspended chairman, Tope Omolayo, citing an ongoing court case.

The legislators, through their solicitors, Messrs Tolu Babaleye & Co., have formally written to the state attorney general and commissioner for justice, asking him to decline any approval for Omolayo’s reinstatement for now.

They maintained that the dispute over the chairman’s suspension is already before a competent court and should not be interfered with, explaining that the case, filed at the High Court sitting in Owo, is seeking a judicial pronouncement on the legality of the suspension.

“Our clients are before the court in Suit No: HCOW/22/CIV/2026, which concerns the validity of the suspension of Hon. Tope Omolayo,” the letter read.

They warned that any attempt to return the chairman to office before the court delivers judgment could destabilise the council.

“Approving such a move at this stage is capable of causing disorder and disrupting peace within the local government,” the lawyers added.

The legal team further argued that the matter should be left entirely in the hands of the judiciary until a final decision is reached, urging the attorney general to exercise caution and uphold the rule of law by rejecting any request for reinstatement at this time.

“We strongly appeal that no approval should be granted for his return until the court has delivered its verdict,” the letter added.