By Our Reporter
Traditional rulers in Owo Local Government Area have publicly distanced themselves from the apology tendered by the suspended council chairman, Hon. Tope Omolayo, insisting that his controversial remarks against the Olowo of Owo, Oba Ajibade Ogunoye, constitute a deep insult to the collective traditional authority of Owo land.
Omolayo, who was suspended by councillors, had come under fire after a leaked audio message surfaced in which he allegedly made disparaging comments about the Olowo. Following the uproar, he issued a letter expressing regret, saying his words were “thoughtless” and did not reflect the respect he holds for the throne.
“I take full responsibility for my words,” the letter read. “I am profoundly sorry for any embarrassment my utterances may have caused Your Majesty and the people of Owo.”
But the traditional rulers under the Owo Local Government Council of Obas say the apology is half-hearted and insufficient.
In a statement signed by the Council’s Secretary and Oloba of Uso, Oba Engr. Ademola Adebiyi Oyinbade, the monarchs said Omolayo’s comments went beyond a personal attack on the Olowo and were “an affront to the entire traditional institution.”
The statement, addressed to Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, revealed that the monarchs initially chose silence—not out of indifference, but out of a desire to maintain peace and avoid being dragged into political disputes.
“Our silence was deliberate,” Oba Oyinbade explained. “We expected Mr. Omolayo to show genuine remorse and initiate a proper reconciliation process. Instead, he has taken no meaningful steps to make amends.”
The monarchs criticised Omolayo’s decision to address the issue through a press conference in Akure, describing it as inadequate and “not a substitute for a sincere and culturally grounded apology.”
According to the royal fathers, the chairman should have personally reached out to the Olowo and the council of Obas, accompanied by community leaders, to demonstrate true penitence.
“An attack on the Olowo is an attack on every Oba in Owo land,” the council insisted. “His conduct is unbecoming of anyone seeking to hold public office and falls below the minimum standards of leadership.”
The Obas also cautioned political actors against undermining the traditional institution, reminding them that monarchs remain the custodians of cultural heritage, values, and communal peace.
They urged political parties to prioritise character and emotional maturity when fielding candidates for public office.
“We collectively denounce and reject the unfortunate voice message,” the statement concluded. “This incident must serve as a lesson. Owo deserves leaders who embody respect, restraint, and responsibility.
The Pivot reached out to Omolayo for additional comments, but he was unavailable as of press time.
