The Chairman of Obafemi-Owode Local Government Area in Ogun State, Adesina Lanre Ogunsola, has imposed a six-month suspension on two rival female leaders (Iyaloja) of Mowe Market following a prolonged power tussle that disrupted commercial activity and triggered protests.
The announcement was made in a statement issued by the council’s Director of Information, Segun Soneye, and circulated to journalists on Friday in Abeokuta, the state capital. According to Soneye, the chairman reached the decision during a high-level meeting in his office involving security agencies, traditional leaders, representatives of the National Orientation Agency (NOA), and other community stakeholders.
“The Chairman, Hon. Adesina Ogunsola, has directed both feuding parties to immediately cease all leadership functions in the market for six months,” the statement read, noting that the move was to restore peace and order.
Soneye further explained that the decision followed a protest by the Association of Mowe Market Men and Women, who accused the suspended Iyaloja leaders of intimidation, extortion, and illegal collection of levies from traders. The market association claimed their members had endured months of financial abuse and leadership instability, which affected market operations.
Ogunsola, according to the statement, assured stakeholders that his administration would prioritize peace and fairness in addressing the matter. He also called for calm while efforts continue to mediate and resolve the leadership dispute within the affected market community.
