There is growing concern among residents of Ifedore Local Government Area over what many have described as a disturbing pattern by their representative in the Ondo State House of Assembly, Hon. Tope Komolafe. Rather than respond to questions about his stewardship, Komolafe is reportedly resorting to legal threats and lawsuits against constituents who demand accountability.
Multiple sources within the constituency confirm that the lawmaker has, on more than one occasion, filed lawsuits or threatened legal action against ordinary citizens for asking questions about his performance. Critics say this approach not only undermines the spirit of democracy but also raises serious concerns about his understanding of public service.
“For asking what he has done in office, I was served a letter,” one constituent who asked to remain anonymous told our correspondent. “Instead of answering, he got a lawyer. That’s not representation. That’s intimidation.”
Observers say Komolafe’s actions are part of a larger decline in the quality of governance at the Ondo State House of Assembly. The current 10th Assembly has been widely criticised for its lack of independence and its failure to check the executive. Recently, when the governor announced the appointment of commissioners with immediate effect, the Assembly delayed confirmation proceedings until public outcry forced them into action.
“Tope Komolafe was silent when executive decisions were being rushed through without proper scrutiny. He found no voice to question government actions,” said a political analyst in Akure. “But he has found his voice when it comes to silencing his own constituents with court threats. It is both ironic and shameful.”
Many in Ifedore argue that a representative who cannot answer questions should not occupy a public office. Civil society groups have also raised red flags about the implications of using litigation to suppress democratic participation.
“Lawmaking is not about ego. It is about service, transparency, and dialogue,” said Adebayo Fashina, a legal practitioner and civic advocate. “Suing people for speaking up sets a dangerous precedent.”
As public anger simmers, calls are growing for Komolafe to either change course or resign. According to critics, if he cannot stand up for his people in the Assembly and cannot tolerate basic feedback outside it, then he has failed in the most fundamental duties of his office.
Efforts to reach Hon. Tope Komolafe for comments were unsuccessful at the time of filing this report.
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