Egbedun Accuses Alasi of Threats and Violence, Reaffirms Respect for Traditional Institutions

T The Speaker of the Osun State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Adewale Egbedun, has raised alarm over a series of threats and violent acts allegedly orchestrated by Oba Oyewale Olasunkanmi Isaac, the Alasi of Asi. In a statement issued to the public, the Speaker addressed what he described as “deeply troubling actions” that have put his life and the safety of his constituents at risk.

Egbedun stated that since his decision to relocate to Asi to be closer to the people of Odo Otin, the Alasi has perceived him as a threat. According to him, the move shifted political dynamics in the constituency, allowing easier access for constituents who previously had to travel to Osogbo to engage with him.

“This decision fostered a renewed sense of allegiance among the people of Odo Otin towards me, fundamentally shifting the narrative within our community,” Egbedun said.

The Speaker alleged that the monarch’s hostility escalated into physical violence when his convoy was attacked at Okuku about three weeks ago while returning home. He described the incident as a “brazen display of intimidation” that endangered both him and those travelling with him.

Egbedun revealed that the incident prompted him to involve the Commissioner of Police and the Director of the Department of State Services (DSS), leading to the arrest of one suspect. However, another suspect, identified simply as “Easy,” remains at large and is reportedly being tracked by the DSS and the anti-kidnapping unit of the Nigerian Police Force.

Following the attack, the Speaker said he received a phone call from Oba Oyewale, demanding that he prevent the arraignment of the arrested suspect and halt further arrests. He described the call as a direct threat, not just to him but also to his security aides.

“These threats, directed at me and on some occasions to my security aides, are utterly intolerable and reflect a troubling collusion. The Alasi's repeated threats of further violence against me are a clear attempt to undermine and intimidate me into silence,” he said.

Despite the tension, Egbedun emphasised his continued respect for traditional rulers and institutions. “Let it be unequivocally clear: I have a deep regard for traditional institutions and respect for the elderly, but that will not come at the expense of my life,” he stated.

He also noted that he had, on several occasions, supported Oba Oyewale and the Asi community in ways he believed were appropriate for a son to support his father. However, he expressed disappointment that those gestures had not been reciprocated with goodwill.

“I remain steadfast in my commitment to serve the people of Osun State and to uphold the law without fear or favour. I sincerely apologise to my supporters for my emotional outbursts; however, there can be no smoke without fire,” he added.