Ondo State Commissioner Accuses Party Member of Preplanned Attack

By Iyojo Ameh

The Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development in Ondo State, Princess Adebunmi Osadaun, has leveled accusations of a premeditated attack against her by a fellow member of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Olumide Awolumate.

The allegations have ignited a firestorm of controversy and concern.

Speaking before the press in the state capital, Akure, on Monday, Princess Osadaun revealed details of the incident and claimed that this was not a random act of aggression.

She alleged that she had been subjected to a campaign of bullying and threats by Awolumate leading up to the assault.

According to reports, Princess Osadaun had previously reported Awolumate’s conduct to the traditional ruler of their community, the Zaki of Arigidi-Akoko in Akoko North-West Local Government Area, though no resolution had been reached.

The Commissioner recounted how the situation escalated when Awolumate purportedly visited her residence, verbally abused her, and recorded the incident, later sharing it on social media platforms. Furthermore, she claimed that Awolumate infiltrated her office in Akure, where he allegedly harassed her in the presence of a group of women who were there on a courtesy visit.

The commissioner stressed that there was no known direct rivalry or political competition between herself and Awolumate, leaving open the question of what might have motivated these actions. She suggested that there might be a hidden hand orchestrating the attacks but did not provide further details.

Responding to Awolumate’s defense that he acted in self-defense after allegedly being attacked by Princess Osadaun’s son, the Commissioner vehemently denied these allegations, absolving her son of any involvement. She offered her account of the events leading to the altercation, stating that she identified Awolumate to the police, after which he allegedly became aggressive, ultimately assaulting her.

Princess Osadaun’s accusations have thrust this case into the spotlight, prompting a call for a thorough investigation to uncover the truth surrounding the incident. Concerns for the Commissioner’s safety have been raised, with allegations that Awolumate may have ulterior motives and financial incentives behind his actions.