Kitchener City Councillor in Ontario, Ayo Owodunni, has disclosed that he will not seek re-election as Ward 5 representative in the Kitchener, citing family considerations following the relocation of his wife outside Canada.

Owodunni disclosed his decision in a statement after what he described as extensive reflection and discussions with his family.

“After much reflection and many heartfelt conversations with my family, I have made the difficult decision not to seek re-election as Ward 5 City Councillor,” he said.

He described serving the residents of Ward 5 over the past four years as one of the greatest honours of his life, expressing gratitude to constituents for their support, encouragement and trust throughout his tenure.

According to him, the growth of his wife’s business in recent years eventually led to her relocation outside Canada, resulting in prolonged periods away from his wife and children.

“The distance has meant spending far too much time away from her and our children. Family is at the core of who I am, and after careful consideration, I believe now is the right time to step away from municipal politics and be present for my family,” he stated.

Owodunni said he was leaving office with pride over achievements recorded during his tenure, noting that Ward 5 witnessed major progress in recreation, housing, sustainability, innovation, community safety and economic development.

Among the accomplishments he achieved during the period of his tenure was the advancement of the Growing Together Plan aimed at unlocking 100,000 new homes across Kitchener, including 20,000 “missing middle” homes.

He also championed the approval of triplexes, fourplexes and accessory dwelling units city-wide to improve housing options and affordability, while supporting inclusionary zoning and other affordable housing initiatives.

On recreation and community infrastructure, Owodunni pointed to major investments including the RBJ Schlegel Park indoor recreation complex and the new Rosenberg Community Centre.

He further noted efforts to advance the proposed Ward 5 library and expand community recreation opportunities in Williamsburg.

The councillor also cited support for Kitchener’s clean energy transition and the city’s award-winning urban tree strategy as part of environmental sustainability efforts pursued during his tenure.

According to him, his administration also strengthened newcomer support programmes, community engagement initiatives and neighbourhood safety measures across Ward 5.

Owodunni additionally stressed his role in championing innovation, entrepreneurship and economic development partnerships across the city.

He stated that significant infrastructure investments were delivered during his tenure while keeping municipal budgets below inflation and avoiding what he described as unnecessary tax increases.

Owodunni attributed the achievements recorded during his tenure to the collective efforts of residents, volunteers, city staff, community organisations and fellow council members.

“To every resident who sent an email, attended a meeting, stopped me in the grocery store, shared a concern, or offered an idea, and to everyone who simply believed in me enough to give me this opportunity, thank you,” he said.

Although stepping away from elected office, he maintained that his commitment to the community remained strong.

“Though I am stepping away from elected office, my love for this community and my belief in its future remain unchanged,” he added.