Gunmen kill Ondo monarch in failed abduction attempt
• 10 suspects invaded palace, says wife Suspected bandits have killed a traditional ruler, Oba Kehinde Falodun, the Alagamo of Agamo community at his palace in Akure North Local Government
• 10 suspects invaded palace, says wife
Suspected bandits have killed a traditional ruler, Oba Kehinde Falodun, the Alagamo of Agamo community at his palace in Akure North Local Government Area of Ondo State.
The assailants, said to be about 10, stormed the monarch’s residence on Wednesday evening in an attempt to abduct the royal father and members of his household.
According to the wife, who narrowly escaped, the attackers tried to whisk the monarch away but met resistance.
“The bandits came and started shooting. Three stayed at the entrance while others came inside. I ran into the bush. They shot at me but it did not affect me,” she said.
She added that when the kidnappers failed to subdue the monarch, they resorted to violence.
“They kept dragging my husband and I kept shouting for help. Later they hit something on his head and stomach. He has been killed,” she said.
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The spokesman for the state Police Command, Deputy Superintendent of Police Abayomi Jimoh, said the command received distress information around 7:50 p.m. from a community leader.
He said six bandits took the monarch from his compound and fled.
“The victim was later found a few metres away with gunshot wounds. He was confirmed dead at the scene,” Jimoh stated.
He said the Divisional Police Officer, alongside tactical teams, mobilised officers and security groups, including Amotekun Corps, hunters and Atuluse vigilantes, to comb nearby bushes in search of the attackers.
“The Command assures residents that no stone will be left unturned in bringing those responsible to justice,” he added.
Elders and traditional chiefs in Agamo have condemned the killing, describing the late monarch as a peace-loving leader who played a major role in resolving disputes and promoting development in the community.
A community leader, who asked not to be named, said the attack had created fear and a leadership vacuum.
“This is a painful loss to us. Kabiyesi (the king) was very close to the people. We appeal to the government and security agencies to act fast and ensure those behind this are arrested,” he said.
