Politics

Crisis in Osun: Constituents Move to Recall Speaker Egbedun Over Monarch Dispute

Published by Akinwale Fakinlede on August 4th, 2025.

The controversy stems from an incident involving Hon. Egbedun and the Olola of Ola, Oba Johnson Ajiboye, during what sources described as a tense community engagement. Eyewitnesses allege that the Speaker used “undignified and threatening” language against the monarch, sparking outrage among residents and traditional leaders in the region.

In a statement released by a coalition of community youth groups and elders under the banner of Concerned Constituents for Justice, the group accused Egbedun of “crossing a sacred line” by undermining the authority of a revered royal institution. “Our culture and traditions are not to be trampled upon by anyone, no matter how highly placed,” the statement read.

The group further announced plans to begin the constitutional process of recall, vowing to collect signatures across wards and engage legal experts to challenge the Speaker’s continued stay in office. “The Speaker’s actions are unbecoming of a public servant. He has lost the moral authority to lead the Assembly,” said Akinwale Oyelade, a spokesperson for the group.

Though details of the altercation remain murky, the Palace of the Olola of Ola confirmed that there was a “disrespectful exchange” between the Speaker and the monarch. “Kabiyesi has chosen to remain silent in the face of this provocation out of respect for peace, but the people will not be silent,” said a palace official who requested anonymity.

Efforts to reach Hon. Egbedun for comment proved unsuccessful, as calls and messages to his official line were not returned at the time of this report. However, a source close to the Speaker’s camp described the situation as “grossly exaggerated” and politically motivated. “The Speaker has great respect for traditional institutions. This is just a smear campaign,” the source said.

Political observers note that the recall threat, if carried through, could escalate tensions in the state’s political landscape, especially with upcoming local government elections around the corner. They warn that the fallout may not only affect Egbedun’s political future but also test the strength of party unity within the ruling party.

Meanwhile, civil society organizations and human rights advocates have called for calm and urged both parties to pursue reconciliation through dialogue. “We cannot allow this issue to deepen the rift between the political class and traditional rulers. Mutual respect must prevail,” said Abiola Kareem, director of the Centre for Civic Engagement.

As the recall campaign gains momentum, all eyes are on Osun State to see whether constituents will succeed in their historic push to unseat a sitting Speaker – or if political maneuvering will once again override grassroots a

gitation.