In a shocking incident in Ogun State, a traditional ruler has been accused of humiliating and physically assaulting a 73-year-old man. The alleged assault, which occurred in the traditional ruler’s palace, has sparked outrage among local residents and human rights groups.

The victim, identified as Mr. Adewale Akinyele, a retired civil servant, claims that the traditional ruler, whose identity has not yet been publicly disclosed, verbally abused him before physically attacking him. According to Akinyele, the traditional ruler, who is said to hold a position of considerable influence in the region, threatened him in a way that left him in fear for his life.

"He told me, ‘You’ll die and go blind. I own the Nigerian police, and I’ll send you to jail,’" Akinyele recounted tearfully. "I was just standing there, helpless, as he humiliated me in front of others in his palace."

Akinyele alleges that the assault was sparked by a long-standing personal dispute with the traditional ruler, although the exact cause remains unclear. Witnesses to the incident have corroborated Akinyele’s account, confirming that the elderly man was indeed subjected to both verbal and physical abuse during the altercation.

Local authorities in Ogun State have been urged to investigate the matter thoroughly, with many condemning the alleged actions of the traditional ruler. Human rights advocates have voiced concerns that the elderly man, already frail due to his age, could have been severely injured by the incident.

The Nigerian Police Force has yet to make an official statement regarding the involvement of the traditional ruler in the assault. However, there have been calls for accountability, with many urging that influential figures in the community be held to the same legal standards as ordinary citizens.

This incident highlights ongoing issues of power abuse by certain traditional rulers in Nigeria, particularly in rural and semi-urban areas where they often exert significant influence over local affairs. The situation also underscores the need for reform and stronger enforcement of laws that protect vulnerable individuals, particularly the elderly, from abuse.

Ogun State residents have expressed their shock and disgust at the alleged attack, with many wondering if the power dynamics within traditional institutions are being abused to target and intimidate those who are powerless to resist. As of now, the victim has been advised to seek medical attention and legal counsel, while calls for justice continue to grow louder.