Residents appeal for reinstatement of suspended Owo Council chairman

By Boye Oyeyemi –

Hundreds of residents on Tuesday gathered at the Ancient Mapo Hall, near the palace of the Olowo of Owo, to appeal for the reinstatement of the suspended Chairman of Owo Local Government, Hon. Temitope Omolayo.

Carrying placards urging mercy, the residents called on the Owo monarch to “balance justice with compassion”, warning that the absence of the chairman had created a security gap in the town.

Comrade Lawrence Temidayo, speaking for the residents, described Omolayo as a committed community leader and a “son of the soil who supports local development.”

“Indeed, he committed an offence by disrespecting the throne. We know he had no right to insult Kabiyesi, but he has publicly apologised, and we are here to seek forgiveness on his behalf. We are not protesting; we are appealing,” Temidayo said.

He further expressed concern over rising insecurity since the suspension, noting that students and residents had been particularly affected.

“When he was in office, he monitored security day and night. Since he was removed, we have witnessed thefts and unrest, especially among the student population. At this crucial time, Hon. Tokunbo is needed as our voice,” he said.

Another resident, Suleiman Alaba, said the demonstration was peaceful, emphasising that the appeal was purely for reconciliation.

“We are not here to escalate tensions. The chairman has apologised, and we are only asking for mercy from all Kabiyesis,” he said.