Pandemonium broke out at the Owo Local Government Secretariat in Ondo State on Monday as suspected thugs descended on the council chairman, Mr Tope Omolayo, assaulting and stripping him almost naked in a brazen show of force that left workers in shock.
Omolayo, who was elected on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC), was earlier suspended by elected councillors of the council over allegations of gross misconduct.
After serving the suspension, the embattled chairman resumed duties on Monday when the thugs allegedly pounced on him, beating him mercilessly.
According to an eyewitness, Omolayo arrived at the council secretariat in the morning to resume duties after about six months of suspension when the suspected thugs allegedly invaded the secretariat in a bid to stop him from entering the office, leading to an argument and later a free-for-all.
“They beat him mercilessly, tore his clothes and left him almost completely n@ked. It was an embarrassment. The entire secretariat went into commotion as people were running for safety while the thugs fired shots into the air,” the eyewitness stated.
Speaking with Newsmen on the incident, the state Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Abayomi Jimoh, said the command swiftly reacted to the matter by deploying personnel to the secretariat to forestall a breakdown of law and order.
“The attention of the Command was drawn to this report. Upon receipt, the Commissioner of Police, CP Adebowale Lawal, promptly ordered the immediate deployment of security personnel and operational assets to the scene,” the PPRO said.
“This swift response has successfully restored calm and normalcy in the area.
“Meanwhile, investigations are ongoing to ascertain the circumstances surrounding the incident and to bring all involved to justice.”
He said the Commissioner had urged residents of the state to remain law-abiding and continue their lawful activities without fear or apprehension.
