Owo monarchs berate suspended council chairman over remarks against Olowo
By Boye Oyeyemi –
Traditional rulers in Owo Local Government Area have criticised the suspended council chairman, Mr Tope Omolayo, over an audio recording in which he allegedly made insulting remarks about His Imperial Majesty, Oba (Dr) Ajibade Gbadegesin Ogunoye III, the Olowo of Owo.
In a statement signed by the Secretary of the Owo Council of Obas, HRM Oba Engr. Ademola Adebiyi Oyinbade, who is also the Oloba of Uso, the monarchs described Omolayo’s comments as “disrespectful, reckless, and unworthy of a former public official.”
The council said it was disappointed that Omolayo had yet to personally apologise to the Olowo and other traditional rulers in the area, noting that his press briefing in Akure “does not amount to a sincere apology” given the nature of his remarks.
“An attack on Kabiyesi Olowo is an attack on all the Obas,” the statement read, warning that such conduct was capable of sparking avoidable tension within the community.
The monarchs urged political parties to field only credible and disciplined individuals for public office to prevent similar incidents that could tarnish the image of the traditional institution.
They, however, commended Oba Ogunoye for maintaining a calm and measured response to the controversy, describing his restraint as an example of mature leadership.
