APC Elders Demand DSS, Police, EFCC, ICPC Probe of Suspended Owo Council Chairman Over Alleged Fraud and Meager State

The Coordinator of the All Progressives Congress (APC) Elders’ Movement for Tinubu 2027 in Ondo State, Otunba Agboola Kelly, has called for the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Nigeria Police Force, Department of State Security (DSS) and Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) to investigate Hon. Tope Omolayo, the suspended chairman of Owo Local Government.

The demand followed Omolayo’s suspension last week and his claim that the state government, led by Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, allocates less than ?5 million monthly to the council, severely limiting its operations.

In a press statement issued in Akure on Friday, Kelly described the allegations against Omolayo as too serious to ignore, urging anti-graft agencies to probe both the chairman’s conduct and his claims of inadequate funding. “Hon. Omolayo’s assertion that the state provides less than ?5 million monthly raises questions about financial management at both local and state levels,” Kelly stated. “The EFCC and ICPC must invite him for questioning to ensure transparency and uphold the APC’s commitment to good governance.”

Omolayo’s suspension, announced on October 15 by the Owo Local Government Legislative Council, was backed by 11 lawmakers, citing gross misconduct and financial impropriety.

Specific allegations include unauthorized diversion of council funds, failure to account for Federation Account Allocation Committee (FAAC) funds, breaches of budget and revenue protocols, and restricting council access to minimal funds.

The council directed Omolayo to hand over all properties to the Head of Local Government Administration and update bank signatories to curb further mismanagement.

He further alleged that the state’s meager allocations of less than ?5 million monthly have crippled the council’s ability to deliver projects.

To restore public confidence, Otunba Kelly emphasized the need for a thorough investigation to ascertain the veracity of Omolayo’s claims and the allegations against him.

“The people of Owo deserve clarity on how their funds are managed.

A detailed probe by the EFCC and ICPC will not only address these concerns but also set a precedent for accountability in local governance across Ondo State,” he added.