The Chairman of Owo Local Government Area in Ondo State, Mr. Tope Omolayo, was on Monday allegedly attacked by suspected thugs following a dispute linked to a lingering leadership crisis within the council.
Sources said the disagreement is connected to a prolonged power struggle between the chairman and councillors over his earlier suspension on allegations of misconduct, as well as disagreements on the control and administration of council affairs after his expected return.
Omolayo, a member of the All Progressives Congress (APC), had reportedly resumed duties at the council secretariat after spending months on suspension by councillors.
His return, however, appeared to have reignited tensions within the local government leadership.
Shortly after he arrived at the secretariat, suspected thugs allegedly confronted him and attempted to stop him from entering his office. The situation quickly escalated into violence.
Inside Ondo:
Six Arrested Over Planned Bomb Attack in Ondo
Ondo Finance Commissioner Under Investigation for Alleged Attempted Murder
Two Nabbed for Attempted Abduction of Toddler in Ondo
Teen Allegedly Stabs Friend to Death Over Money in Ondo
27-Year-Old Nigerian Arraigned for Murder in London
An eyewitness said the scene became chaotic as the attackers allegedly beat the chairman, tore his clothes, and caused panic within the council premises. Staff and visitors reportedly fled for safety as the disturbance spread.
There were also reports that gunshots were fired into the air during the incident, further heightening tension in the area.
Security operatives were later deployed to the secretariat to restore order and prevent further breakdown of law and order.
Confirming the incident, the spokesperson of the Ondo State Police Command, DSP Abayomi Jimoh, said officers were quickly deployed following the report of the attack.
He added that calm had since returned to the area, while investigations were ongoing to identify those responsible and clarify the full circumstances surrounding the incident.
According to him, the Commissioner of Police, Adebowale Lawal, has ordered a thorough investigation and urged residents to remain calm and continue their lawful activities.
Efforts to reach Mr. Omolayo for comments were unsuccessful as his phone line was switched off at the time of filing this report.
About the Author
