Tragedy in Ondo: Gunmen Kill Traditional Ruler in AKURE NORTH LOCAL GOVERNMENT

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Tension has gripped the Agamo community in Akure north Local Government Area of Ondo State following the killing of its traditional ruler, Oba Kehinde Falodun, by suspected bandits.

The tragic incident reportedly occurred on Wednesday night when armed men stormed the monarch’s palace. Sources within the community revealed that the attackers, said to be about 10 in number, invaded the area through the Itaogbolu axis before heading straight to the palace.Monarch Attacked Inside PalaceAccording to family sources, the gunmen attempted to abduct the monarch, but he resisted. Witnesses claimed the attackers initially opened fire on him. When the bullets allegedly failed to penetrate, he was reportedly struck on the head with a weapon. A family member disclosed that the assailants were speaking Hausa during the operation, raising suspicions that they may belong to an organised criminal network.

Wife Recounts Ordeal

The wife of the late monarch narrated that the attackers struck shortly after the king returned from a trip to agama and was resting outside the palace.

They came shooting. Some stayed at the entrance while others came inside. I ran into the bush to escape. One of them chased me and even shot at me, but I survived,” she said.

She further stated that despite her cries for help, no one could come to their rescue as residents fled for safety. The attackers reportedly dragged the monarch away and later fatally assaulted him.

Daughter Speak

One of the monarch’s daughters described the scene as chaotic and terrifying. She said the attackers kept shooting sporadically, causing panic in the community.

“They carried him and kept beating him when he insisted he was a king. Later, they attacked him with a sharp object. He was eventually killed outside the palace,” she said.

She also alleged that the attackers were dressed like Fulani herders and seized a guest’s mobile phone during the invasion.

Police Launch Manhunt

The Ondo State Police Command has described the incident as tragic and confirmed that a manhunt is underway.According to the command, officers, tactical teams, local hunters, Amotekun operatives, and Atuluse Security members have been deployed to comb nearby bushes and surrounding areas in search of the suspects.Authorities assured residents that security operations have been intensified to restore calm and bring those responsible to justice. Members of the public with credible information have been urged to report to the nearest police station.