Owo Council Chairman Beaten and Stripped by Hoodlums in Secretariat Invasion
Owo Local Government Area in Ondo State was thrown into chaos on Monday as hoodlums invaded the council secretariat, attacking and stripping the Council Chairman, Tope Omolayo. The incident occurred shortly after Omolayo resumed duty following the expiration of his six-month suspension, leading to a severe disruption of official activities and widespread panic among workers.
Violent Attack and Political Turmoil
According to eyewitness accounts, the chairman had barely settled into his office when the attackers descended on him. He was brutally beaten, and his clothes were torn in the process, leaving him exposed and humiliated. Workers at the secretariat fled in various directions as the armed hoodlums stormed the premises in large numbers, creating a scene described by one source as "like a war zone." The situation escalated further with reports of gunshots fired into the air, heightening fear and confusion within the council area.
Some council staff linked the violent episode to ongoing political tensions and influence struggles within the local government. Omolayo had been suspended about six months ago by the legislative council due to political and administrative disagreements, and his return appears to have reignited underlying conflicts. Additionally, witnesses claimed that the attackers made references to authority from the Olowo of Owo during the confrontation, though this allegation remains unverified.
Denials and Calls for Intervention
In response to the claims, an official from the palace of the Olowo of Owo, speaking anonymously, denied any involvement of the traditional institution in the incident. The official urged that the palace not be associated with the attack, noting that no formal statement had been issued at the time of reporting. This denial comes amid a backdrop of previous tensions, as Omolayo was declared persona non grata in Owo in November 2025 by the Olowo-in-Council over alleged public insult and disrespect toward the paramount ruler, Oba Ajibade Ogunoye.
Supporters of the chairman have questioned the legality of his suspension process, alleging irregularities in official communication and documentation. In light of the attack, community stakeholders have called on Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa and security agencies to intervene urgently to restore order and prevent further violence.
Police Response and Security Measures
The state Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Abayomi Jimoh, confirmed that the command swiftly reacted to the incident. Upon receiving the report, Commissioner of Police CP Adebowale Lawal ordered the immediate deployment of security personnel and operational assets to the scene to forestall a breakdown of law and order. This rapid response aims to stabilize the area and investigate the motives behind the invasion, as authorities work to address the security breach and political instability in Owo Local Government.
