Suspected gunmen have brutally killed Oba Kehinde Falodun, the Alagamo of Agamo community, in Akure North Local Government Area, Ondo State, following a failed abduction attempt.
Attack on the Palace
Sources close to the royal family disclosed that the attack occurred on Wednesday evening when over ten armed men stormed the monarch’s palace, allegedly with the intention of kidnapping him. However, the traditional ruler reportedly resisted the attempt, forcing the assailants to abandon their initial plan.
During the confrontation, the gunmen reportedly opened fire on the monarch. Although several shots were fired, sources said the bullets did not penetrate his body. The attackers were said to have then struck him on the head with a weapon, inflicting fatal injuries.
Assailants’ Movement and Identity
Confirming the incident, the monarch’s wife revealed that the attackers did not speak Yoruba, raising suspicion that they were not locals. She further disclosed that the gunmen were believed to have entered the community through the Itaogbolu axis before launching the attack.
Police Confirmation
Reacting to the incident, the Ondo State Police Command confirmed the killing in an official statement. According to the police spokesperson, Abayomi Jimoh, six armed men stormed the monarch’s residence around 7:50 p.m. on Wednesday and forcibly took him away.
“The victim was later found a few metres away with gunshot wounds and was confirmed dead at the scene,” Jimoh stated.
Security Operation Launched
Following the report, police authorities said detectives and tactical teams were immediately deployed to the area to strengthen security and track down the perpetrators. The operation is being carried out in collaboration with local security outfits, including Amotekun, Atuluse Security, and local hunters.
Police Appeal to the Public
The police command urged residents to remain calm and cooperate with security agencies by providing credible information that could aid the investigation.
“The Command assures the public that no stone will be left unturned in bringing those responsible for this heinous act to justice,” the statement added.
The killing of the monarch has sent shockwaves across Ondo State, once again highlighting growing concerns over insecurity and attacks on traditional institutions in parts of Nigeria.
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