Conference of speakers refutes claims of Egbedun’s suspension over leaked call

The Conference of Speakers of State Legislatures of Nigeria (CSSLN) has refuted claims that it has suspended Adewale Egbedun, the speaker of the Osun house of assembly.

BACKGROUND

Reports have surfaced of a conflict between the speaker of Osun assembly and Isaac Oyewale, a traditional monarch in the state.

An alleged leaked telephone conversation between Egbedun, and one of Oyewale’s wives has circulated widely. In the recording, the speaker is heard threatening to beat, arrest, and kill the monarch.

The viral telephone conversation has led to widespread criticism across Osun, with supporters of the monarch calling for the immediate removal of the speaker.

CONFERENCE OF SPEAKERS REACTS 

A statement on Thursday by Adebo Ogundoyin, speaker of Oyo assembly and chairman of the speakers’ conference, described the report suggesting Egbedun’s suspension from the group as “entirely false, malicious, and a deliberate attempt to mislead the public”.

The report had alleged that Egbedun was suspended from the conference over accusations of insubordination and abuse of office.

However, Ogundoyin refuted these claims, saying no suspension had taken place and no press conference was held to announce such action.

“There was no such suspension. No press conference was held in Ibadan or anywhere else, and no such pronouncement was made by me or any authorised representative of the Conference,” he said.

Ogundoyin said the group operates transparently and follows due process in all its disciplinary matters, adding that Egbedun remains a respected and active member of the body.