By Newspot Nigeria Political Desk
The Speaker of the Osun State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Adewale Egbedun, has made a bold and deeply emotional declaration, alleging threats to his life and public safety orchestrated by the traditional ruler of Asi, Oba Oyewale Olasunkanmi Isaac, the Alasi of Asi.
In a strongly worded public statement released today, the Speaker recounted a disturbing sequence of events, including a brazen attack on his convoy near Okuku allegedly carried out by thugs linked to the monarch. The incident, which occurred three weeks ago, prompted immediate intervention from state security agencies, with one suspect reportedly arrested and another still on the run.
According to Hon. Egbedun, the escalation began shortly after he relocated to Asi in a bid to be closer to his constituents in Odo Otin. The Speaker noted that his presence in the community “shifted the narrative” by bringing governance closer to the people—an act he believes sparked the hostility from the traditional ruler.
In his account, Oba Oyewale allegedly issued direct threats, both personally and via phone calls, pressuring the Speaker to interfere in the ongoing investigation and prevent the arraignment of suspects. “The Alasi continues to bombard me with threats,” Egbedun said, adding that his respect for traditional authority “will not come at the expense of my life.”
Despite the tension, Egbedun reaffirmed his unwavering respect for the traditional institution, calling on the monarch to embrace peace and responsible leadership. “I have done what a son should do for his father and his community… but he seems hell-bent on ending my life,” he wrote.
Security sources have not yet confirmed further arrests, but both the DSS and the anti-kidnapping unit of the Nigerian Police are said to be pursuing the prime suspect known as “Easy.”
The development is likely to stir political and community debates across Osun State, particularly around the tension between democratic representation and traditional authority.
As at press time, Oba Oyewale had not responded publicly to the allegations.
Newspot Nigeria will continue to monitor this story and provide updates as new developments unfold.
Full Statement by Rt. Hon. Adewale Egbedun, Speaker, Osun State House of Assembly:
My Regard For Traditional Institution Unshaken
It is with a profound sense of duty and commitment to the values of justice and accountability that I address the ongoing and deeply troubling actions of Oba Oyewale Olasunkanmi Isaac, the Alasi of Asi. The recent series of events has compelled me to make this statement, not only to defend my integrity but also to uphold the dignity of my office, the safety of my constituents, and my own safety.
The Alasi has perceived me as a threat since my relocation to Asi, where I chose to be closer to my constituents and address their needs directly. This decision fostered a renewed sense of allegiance among the people of Odo Otin towards me, fundamentally shifting the narrative within our community. Rather than travelling to Osogbo to see me, the people of Odo Otin now have easier access to me, illustrating a significant change in the dynamics of our constituency.
Regrettably, this animosity has manifested itself in a series of alarming and unacceptable actions. Firstly, there was the heinous act of sending thugs to attack my convoy about three weeks ago at Okuku while returning home. This brazen display of intimidation not only endangered my life but also jeopardised the safety of those travelling with me. In light of these events, I was compelled to contact the Commissioner of Police and the Director of DSS, both of whom acted swiftly to apprehend one of the culprits involved in the attack against me.
I am aware that one of the suspects involved, identified as “Easy”, has been evading justice, while the Department of State Services (DSS) and the anti-kidnapping unit of the Nigerian Police Force are still on his trail.
Following this assault, I received a threatening phone call from the Alasi, instructing me not to allow security operatives to arraign the arrested suspect and to stop them from arresting the others involved. Such 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.
However, the Alasi continues to bombard me with threats, demanding the release of the arrested suspect and attempting to influence the course of justice.
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. I have done what a son should do for his father and his community for Oba Oyewale on several occasions, but he seems hell-bent on ending my life.
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.
I hope the Alasi of Asi will reflect on his actions and recognise that true leadership is characterised by responsibility, respect, and the promotion of peace, not by violence and intimidation.
Thank you.
Rt. Hon. Adewale Egbedun,
Speaker, Osun State House of Assembly.
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