Leaders from Ilaje-Omuro in Ondo State have reached out to Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, urging him to exercise forgiveness in the ongoing trial of activist Emorioloye Owolemi, who faces cyberstalking charges.
This appeal follows Owolemi's recent arraignment at the Federal High Court in Akure, where he was charged with two counts related to cyberstalking and offensive online communication.
The case, identified as FHC/AK/3C/26, arises from Facebook posts made by Owolemi, which questioned the minister's academic qualifications and criticized his actions.
Prosecutors allege that these posts, reportedly submitted on December 23, 2025, from Igbokoda, included statements that were deemed threatening and inappropriate, violating the Cybercrimes Act.
The case has drawn notable attention in the coastal regions of Ondo State and is set to continue in court on March 26.
In light of the situation, community leaders formally addressed Minister Tunji-Ojo, appealing for understanding and reconciliation concerning Owolemi's actions.
In a letter signed by community Chairman Babatunde Omobone, the leaders commended Tunji-Ojo's service and implored him to show mercy in the matter.
The correspondence expressed appreciation for the minister's contributions but acknowledged the distress Owolemi's behavior has caused, stating, "We recognize that Mr. Owolemi's actions have resulted in embarrassment and tension."
The community leaders apologized on behalf of Owolemi, noting that his misconduct reflected negatively on the minister and his office. They expressed regret, saying, "We acknowledge that his actions have caused you and your ministry undue embarrassment."
While addressing the gravity of the allegations, they encouraged the minister to consider leniency, asserting that Owolemi might have acted from a place of inexperience.
"We respectfully seek your forgiveness and compassion regarding this incident. We understand Mr. Owolemi's conduct was unacceptable, yet we hope for a path toward understanding," they stated.
The community leadership expressed a desire for this incident to be a learning experience for Owolemi, assuring the minister that they will oversee his behavior moving forward.
In their letter, they attributed Owolemi's actions to naivety, suggesting he has gained valuable insight from the situation, and pleaded for the minister to reconsider any potential disciplinary measures.
"Given this context, we humbly request that you reconsider any punitive action against him, promising accountability from our community to prevent future incidents."
In a related development, Owolemi had filed a request with the court to investigate the minister's academic credentials, adding further complexity to the case.
Additionally, civil society group Concerned Citizens Leadership Integrity and Transparency Advocacy Initiative (CLITA) criticized the legal proceedings, advocating that public officials should be open to scrutiny.
As discussions around the case continue to intensify, community leaders reiterated their commitment to restoring peace and averting any escalation between the activist and the minister.
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