Although, Ede is an ancient town, it exhibits three essential features of urbanization – population expansion, increase in large towns and regional disparities. Ede is located in Osun State, Southwestern Nigeria, and it is about ten (10) minutes’ drive from and to Osogbo, the state capital of Osun State. It also shares boundaries with other notable towns such as Iwo, Ejigbo, Edunabon, Ode-Omu among others. It is remarkable to note that the present Ede is a product of Ede-Ile, a military outpost of the famous Oyo Empire in the 16^th century. Since the establishment of the present Ede in the 19^th century, the town has undergone tremendous socio-political, cultural, religious and economic transformation. Traditionally, Ede is administered by a paramount ruler with the title of Timi Agbale Olofa Ina. The present Timi is His Royal Majesty, Oba Munirudeen Adesola Lawal, Laminisa I. He is assisted by a Council of twelve traditional Chiefs. These chiefs serve as representatives of the traditional quarters of the town.

In modern politics, Ede is the administrative headquarters of both Ede North (Faosun) and Ede South (Oke Iresi) Local Government Areas. The recent administrative reorganization in Osun State has created new administrative unites at Sekona (Ede East Local Council Development Area) and Owode Area Council. This was in line with the Osun urban renewal programme and rapid urbanization that Ede has witnessed in the last two decades. This has also led to the recognition and elevation of outlying communities – Sekona, Akoda, Alajue, Oloki, Olodan, Adejuwon, Agbungbu, Owode, Abere, Faosun, Loogun, Ologobi among others to second class traditional rulers. The indigenes of Ede have made their marks in all spheres of life. Ede produces the first and the incumbent Governor of Osun State, Alhaji Isiaka Adetunji Adeleke and Senator Nurudeen Ademola Jackson Adeleke respectively. Also, It is the home of Nigeria’s Ambassador to Mexico, Costa Rice, Guatemala and Panama, Amb. Adejare Bello. In the area of entertainment, indigenes of Ede have also made their marks. Oba John Adetoyese Laoye I remains in the heart of the world as the King Drummer. Other notable names include, Prince Fatai Olayiwola Olagunju (Rolling Dollar), Chief Suara Adedeji Aderemi (Olofaana), Mrs. Oyewola Ajibola Elebuibon, Oyenike Laoye (Nikki Laoye), David Adeleke (Davido), Shina Rambo and B- Red.