Oba Kehinde Falodun, the monarch of the Agamọ Community in the Akure North Local Government Area of Ondo State, was reportedly slain by suspected bandits.
It was reported that the traditional ruler was assassinated on Wednesday evening while fighting an attempt by kidnappers to kidnap him.
According to a community source, roughly ten armed men attacked the palace and attempted to kidnap the monarch, who resisted.
According to the source, after shooting him multiple times and the bullets failing to penetrate, the assailants allegedly smashed his head with a heavy instrument, resulting in his death.
Confirming the incident on Thursday, the Police Public Relations Officer, Ondo State Police Command, Mr. Abayomi Jimoh, stated that an investigation had commenced into the matter.
According to him, efforts were ongoing to track down and arrest the fleeing suspects.
“The victim was later found a few meters away with gunshot wounds. He was confirmed dead at the scene.
“Upon receipt of the report, the Divisional Police Officer (DPO), alongside tactical teams from the command, promptly mobilized officers in collaboration with local security outfits.
“Atuluse Security, local hunters, and Amotekun operatives also assisted in combing adjoining bushes and surrounding areas in a bid to apprehend the perpetrators. Efforts are ongoing to track down and arrest the fleeing suspects.
“Monitoring and surveillance activities have been intensified across the area to ensure the safety of residents and prevent further breakdown of law and order.
“The public is assured that no stone will be left unturned in bringing those responsible for the heinous act to justice,” he said.
The incident comes weeks after suspected bandits attacked Ayede Community in the same local government area and abducted a pregnant woman, Mrs. Mary Jesulayomi, who was later released after a ransom was reportedly paid.
Days after the event, the Ondo State Security Network Agency (Amotekun) apprehended 12 persons accused of banditry in the area.
Residents have voiced alarm over the increasing insecurity in Akure North, urging security services to step up efforts to restore calm in the affected villages.
