Tension is brewing in Owo Local Government Area as a coalition of youths has accused the Council Chairman, Hon. Tope Omolayo, of attempting to suppress free expression by allegedly petitioning a youth leader to the Department of State Services (DSS).
In a statement signed by Adegboyin Ojo on behalf of Owo youths, the group alleged that Mr. Henry Fadeyi, described as a “credible and vibrant youth” in the community, was targeted after expressing concerns about insecurity and what he perceived as the ineffective handling of the situation by the local government authorities.
The statement described the alleged petition as “a direct affront on our collective freedom of speech” and likened the move to an attempt to instil fear among residents, especially young people. “It is surprising to see such barbarism play out in a society where the rule of law is expected to be supreme. Reporting every criticism to security agencies is an act targeted at silencing the people,” the group said.
The youths warned that any form of harm, intimidation, or unlawful interrogation against Mr. Fadeyi would be met with a peaceful but large-scale protest. “We will not hesitate to mobilise ourselves in great numbers to demonstrate our displeasure towards this unconstitutional act,” the statement added.
As of press time, Hon. Omolayo had yet to respond to the allegations.
0 comments: