Speaker of the Osun State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Adewale Egbedun, has noted that his respect for traditional institutions despite what he described as “ongoing threats to his life”.
In a statement issued and signed personally by the Sepaker on Thursday, Egbedun said recent events have compelled him to speak out, not only to defend his integrity but also to protect the dignity of his office and ensure the safety of his constituents and himself.
According to the Speaker, tensions began after he relocated to Asi to be closer to the people of Odo Otin, which he said shifted the political dynamic in the area.
He further accused the traditional ruler of placing a call to him, threatening him and instructing that the arrested suspect not be arraigned and that security agencies halt efforts to apprehend others involved in the attack.
Read the full statement,
“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 personal 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 whenever the need arises, 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, my convoy was attacked about three weeks ago while returning to Asi at Okuku by thugs. 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 arraign the arrested suspect and directing me 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.” The statement concluded.
