Tragedy has struck Agamọ Community in Akure North Local Government Area of Ondo State following the reported killing of its traditional ruler, Oba Kehinde Falodun, by suspected bandits.
The monarch was allegedly attacked on Wednesday evening during what sources described as an attempted abduction at his palace.
Palace Invasion Turns Deadly
Community sources told newsmen that about 10 armed men stormed the palace with the intention of kidnapping the monarch. However, the traditional ruler reportedly resisted the attempt.
According to accounts from residents, the assailants allegedly fired several gunshots at the monarch. When the bullets reportedly failed to penetrate, the attackers were said to have struck him on the head with a heavy object, leading to fatal injuries.
Police authorities later confirmed that the victim was found a few metres away from the palace with gunshot wounds and was pronounced dead at the scene.
Police Launch Manhunt
In a statement issued on Thursday, the Police Public Relations Officer of the Ondo State Command, Mr Abayomi Jimoh, confirmed that an investigation had commenced.
He stated that the Divisional Police Officer, alongside tactical units, mobilised immediately after receiving the report. Security personnel worked in collaboration with local outfits including Amotekun operatives, Atuluse Security, and local hunters to comb surrounding bushes in search of the fleeing suspects.
The police assured residents that surveillance and monitoring had been intensified across the area to prevent further breakdown of law and order, adding that efforts were ongoing to apprehend those responsible.
Authorities further pledged that no effort would be spared in ensuring that the perpetrators face justice.
Rising Insecurity in Akure North
The killing of the monarch has heightened fears among residents, coming weeks after suspected bandits attacked Ayede Community in the same local government area.
In that earlier incident, a pregnant woman, Mrs Mary Jesulayomi, was abducted and later released after a ransom was reportedly paid. Days later, the Ondo State Security Network Agency, popularly known as Amotekun, announced the arrest of 12 suspects linked to banditry in the area.
Residents of Akure North have since called on security agencies to strengthen intelligence gathering and increase patrols to curb what they describe as growing insecurity.
Security analysts note that attacks on traditional rulers not only threaten lives but also undermine community stability, given the central role monarchs play in grassroots governance and local conflict resolution.
As investigations continue, many in Agamọ and neighbouring communities are hoping for swift justice and a renewed security strategy to restore confidence and peace in the area.
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