The Chairman of Owo Local Government Area in Ondo State, Hon. Tope Omolayo, has been suspended indefinitely over allegations of misconduct.
The suspension was effected following a resolution passed by the Owo Local Government Legislative Council, led by Hon. Doyin Adebayo, during a parliamentary session held in Owo. The decision was backed by a majority vote from 11 councillors.
According to the resolution, signed by two-thirds of the council members, the action was taken to reinforce accountability and maintain governance standards within the local government.
“The Owo Local Government Legislative Council, under the leadership of Hon. Doyin Adebayo, has taken decisive action to uphold good governance and accountability within the Owo Local Government Area,” the resolution stated.
“The allegations against Hon. Omolayo include financial improprieties, flagrant violations of statutory budget and IGR regulations, disrespect towards traditional leaders, and a consistent failure to conduct himself appropriately. These serious allegations warrant a thorough investigation.”
In the interim, Vice Chairman Hon. Hamed Ibrahim has been appointed as Acting Chairman of the council. The council assured residents that the investigation into the allegations will be conducted in a “fair, transparent, and impartial manner.”
“During the suspension period, Hon. Hamed Ibrahim, the Vice Chairman, will assume the role of Acting Chairman of the Local Government Area Council. An investigation into the allegations will be carried out in a fair, transparent, and impartial manner.
“The Council assures the citizens of Owo Local Government Area that this suspension is crucial for ensuring accountability and good governance. We encourage all stakeholders to remain calm and cooperative as we work to resolve these issues.”
The council also directed the Head of Local Government Administration to update bank signatories to reflect the leadership change and to take possession of all government property held by the suspended chairman.
“Key details of the suspension include: Hon. Tope Omolayo is suspended effective immediately, with Hon. Hamed Ibrahim serving as Acting Chairman during this time. The Head of the Local Government Administration is to implement necessary changes to bank signatories, acknowledging Hon. Hamed Ibrahim as the Acting Chairman.
“All properties belonging to the Local Government Area Council that are in Hon. Omolayo’s possession will be handed over to the Head of the Local Government Administration.
“The Legislative Council remains committed to serving the people of Owo Local Government Area and is dedicated to upholding standards of good governance and accountability.”
Efforts to reach Hon. Tope Omolayo for comments were unsuccessful as of press time.
