Audio Leak: Osun Speaker Accused of Threatening 70‑Year‑Old Traditional Ruler Over Minor Dispute

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A leaked voice recording has sparked controversy in Osun State, as Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Adewale (Wale) Egbedun, is heard threatening the life and authority of a revered traditional ruler, Oba Isaac Oyewale, the Alasi of Asi.

In the recording—widely shared on social media—Egbedun, speaking in Yoruba, allegedly warned that if the 70‑year‑old monarch entered Asi, “I’ll make sure he is beaten, his crown removed, and sent to Ilesa.” He is further heard saying, “Let him value his life; he shouldn’t come near here today.” According to reports, he also threatened to involve police and “thugs” to assault the king.

Oba Oyewale, who has since lodged a petition with the Inspector General of Police, alleges the threats were fueled by a minor traffic incident involving a car from his kingdom and a convoy belonging to the Speaker. After intervening to help resolve matter peacefully, the monarch says Egbedun turned hostile and has consistently misused his political influence since.

Aside from requesting IGP intervention, Oba Oyewale claimed the threats made decent life unsafe, forcing him to seek sanctuary outside his palace. According to TVC News and Daily Post, the monarch accused the Speaker of promising to “bathe him in his own blood” and demanded urgent action against the perceived abuse of power.

When approached, Speaker Egbedun acknowledged the phone conversation but defended his conduct as reaction to alleged threats from the monarch. In a statement issued via his Chief Press Secretary, he said: “He sent thugs to attack me … both the police and DSS were called in and one suspect is still at large.” He also accused the monarch of attempting to interfere with justice.

Meanwhile, the Conference of Speakers of State Legislatures of Nigeria (CSSLN) has suspended Egbedun, citing insubordination and scandalous behavior unbecoming of a state parliament speaker.

Nigeria’s public has responded with fierce criticism, with many users branding Egbedun’s remarks “uncouth,” “disrespectful to age and tradition,” and a betrayal of cultural values. Opponents of the monarch, while acknowledging tensions between the parties, emphasized that public officials must seek redress through legal channels—not through threats.

As investigations proceed, observers say the controversy raises serious questions about the misuse of political authority and tribal hierarchy in public discourse. The case serves as a potent reminder that even elected leaders must show restraint, respect, and deference to time-honored traditional institutions.