SHOCK IN ONDO: SUSPENDED COUNCIL CHAIRMAN ASSAULTED AT OWO SECRETARIAT AMID POWER STRUGGLE

SUSPEN

DED COUNCIL CHAIRMAN ASSAULTED AT OWO SECRETARIAT AMID POWER STRUGGLE

Pandemonium erupted at the Owo Local Government Secretariat in Ondo State on Monday following an alleged violent attack on a suspended council chairman, raising fresh concerns about political tensions and security in the area.

According to multiple eyewitness accounts, the chairman, who had reportedly been under suspension for about six months, arrived at the secretariat with the intention of resuming duties when the situation escalated.

Sources said a group of suspected thugs stormed the premises shortly after his arrival, disrupting official activities and forcing staff and visitors to flee for safety. Witnesses described scenes of chaos, with gunshots reportedly fired into the air during the incident.

A staff member who spoke on condition of anonymity alleged that the chairman was physically assaulted during the confrontation. “He was attacked and his clothes were torn in the process. It created panic across the secretariat,” the source said.

Another eyewitness described the incident as “terrifying,” noting that many workers abandoned their posts as the situation spiralled.

Unverified claims from sources linked some of the alleged attackers to local political interests. However, these allegations have not been independently confirmed by authorities.

There were also claims that the attackers invoked the authority of the Olowo of Owo during the incident. As of the time of filing this report, the palace had not issued any official statement regarding the allegation.

The development has intensified debate over the legality and circumstances surrounding the chairman’s suspension, with some stakeholders questioning whether due administrative processes were followed.

Residents and community leaders have condemned the incident, describing it as a disturbing act that undermines democratic institutions and the rule of law.

“This kind of incident is unacceptable in a democratic setting. Disputes should be resolved through lawful and constitutional means,” a resident said.

Observers have also expressed concern over the alleged involvement of non-state actors in political matters, warning that such actions could escalate tensions if not addressed promptly.

Calls have since been made to the Ondo State Government and relevant security agencies to investigate the incident and ensure accountability.

As of press time, the Ondo State Police Command and other security authorities had not released an official statement on the matter.